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BOWEN'S 

PICTURE OF BOSTON, 

OR THE 

CITIZEN'S AND STRANGER'S 

GUIDE. 



,'3,^ /J /^^^ WEN'S, . >, 

^ PICTURE OF BO&;tbN, 

OR THE 

CITIZEN'S AND STRANGER'S 

GUIDE 



^^ METROPOLIS OF MASSACHUSETTS, 
^ AND ITS ENVIRONS. 

TO 

^ ^ WHICH IS PREFIXED 

X 

H THE 

"^^ Annals of Ronton. 

\^^ EMBELLISHED WITH ENGRAVINGS. 

SECOND EDITION ENLARGED AND IMPROVED. 



boston: 
published by lilly wait & co. 

AND 

LORENZO II. BOW EN. 

MDCCCX.XXIII. 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1833, 

BY ABEL BO WEN, 

In the Clerk'* OflBce of the District of Massachusetts. 



■V 



\ 



^- 



PREFACE. 



In publishing the first edition of this work in 1829, it 
was my object to fnrnish the citizen and traveller with a 
convenient pocket volume, that might serve to give a general 
acquaintance with the various institutions that constituted 
the most common subjects of enquiry when a stranger visited 
our city. From the liberal patronage bestowed on that 
edition, and from the repeated calls for a second, I am led 
to believe the work has been acceptable. With this 
impression I have been induced to pursue the laborious task. 

Vast and important alterations have taken place in the 
city within the last four years. Every exertion has been 
made to procure correct and satisfactory information upon 
every subject noted in these pages ; therefore a hope jg 
indulged that a discriminating public may approve the 
labour, and continue a patronage that will enable me to add 
such improvements in subsequent editions as will make the 
work a continued index to this interesting metropolis. 
Alterations and improvements progress with such rapidity, 
that many of the ancient buildings described in this work. 



PREFACE. 

have already disappeared. In fact, it is impossible to keep 
pace with the improvements in this enterprising city, whose 
exterior, like the hues of the camelion, are varying 
continually. 

The multiplicity of subjects, proper to be introduced, 
make it frequently difficult to decide on those to which a 
preference should be given in each particular place. Some 
subjects are but briefly noticed, which perhaps particular 
individuals might be pleased or interested to see more 
largely delineated. If to such any apology be necessary, 
the profession of a good intention is all that I can offer. 
My interest in the ' History of Boston,' by Caleb H. 
Snow, published a few years since, might with propriety, 
forbid my saying it, otherwise I would suggest the belief 
that almost every subject relative to this city will be found 
amply displayed in that volume ; and if the flattering 
opinions of friends may be relied on, I can hardly wish 
for this volume a reputation for correctness superior to what 
that work enjoys. To explain the difference between the 
two works, it may be proper to say that the History of 
Boston is designed to be a connected narrative of events 
from the foundation of the city to the time of its publication. 
This work, the Picture of Boston, presents a bird's-eye- 
viev/ of the most prominent objects as they appear at the 
present time. 

Doubtless, inaccuracies inseparable from a work of this 
description will be discovered ; they are, however, believed 



PREFACE. 

to be few, and of minor importance. I should feel myself 
under pai'ticular obligation, to all who have in possession 
the means of correcting any error, and will so far interest 
themselves as to give information that will lead to its 
correction ; for it is my wish to improve every opportunity 
to verify and make certain whatever may now remain in 
any degree doubtful. 

I cannot conclude without offering my public acknowl- 
edgements to the clergy and many individuals for their aid 
in furnishing dates and materials for this work ; and in a 
special manner to the friend who furnished the * Annala of 
Boston.' 

Boston, June 1, 1833. 




CONTENTS 



Introductory History, - . ... 9 

Boston in Districts, 13 

County of Suffolk, 18 

City Government, ------ 19 

Boston Schools, ----... 30 

Athenagum, --.-... 38 
Libraries, --------43 

Periodicals, - 46 

Societies, 49 

Public Buildings, 67 

Bridges, ----.-..91 

Hospitals, 105 

Trade and Commerce, 112 

Islands, 118 

Boston Churches, 123 

Burial Grounds and Cemeteries, - - - 184 

Military, 194 

Places of Amusement, ----- 198 

Anniversaries, 212 

Hotels, 215 



CONTENTS. 

Boston Packets and Steamboats, - - - - 226 

Canals, 226 

Banks, 228 

Insurance Companies, 234 

Recent and Projected Improvements, - - - 235 

Rail Roads, 237 

Ancient Buildings, - 243 

Annals of Boston, 247 

Environs, 285 

Revolutionary Forts, 303 

Index, 309 



^ 



v^ 



■5- 



LIST OF EMBELLISHMENTS. 



1 Ornamental Title Page, 

2 The State House and Boston Common, to face 1 

- 3 Tremont Street, 6 

V 4 Tri-Mountain, - 10 

^6 East view of Faneuil Hall Market in 1827, 72. 

I 6 City Hall, or Old State House, - - - 76 
7 Faneuil Hall ib. 

^ 8 Merchants Hall, ib. 

9 Custom House, ib. 

10 Massachusetts General Hospital, - - - 105 

II Pine Street Church, 128 

12 The Stone, or King's Chapel, - - - ib. 

13 New Brick Church, ib. 

14 The First, or Chauncy Place Church, - - ib. 

15 Hollis Street Church, _ - - - 144 

16 Christ Church, ib. 

17 St. Paul's Church, ib. 

18 Trinity Church, ib. 

19 Brattle Street Church, . - - - 148 

20 The Cathohc, or Church of the Holy Cross, ib. 

21 Bowdoin Street Church, - - - - ib. 

22 Central Universal Church, . - - ib. 

23 Federal Street Church, (Dr. Channing's,) - 160 
^24 The Old South Church, - - - - ib. 

25 New South Church, ib- 



LIST OF EMBELLISHMENTS. 



26 Park Street Church, - 

27 Federal Street Baptist Church, 

28 West Church, Lynde Street, - 

29 Mariner's Church, 

30 The Temple, - - - - 

31 Monument to Hannah Adams, 

32 Boston Theatre, 

33 Tremont Theatre, 

34 Athenaeum, - . - 

35 Washington Statue, 

36 Warren Theatre, 

37 Tremont House, - - - 

38 Norfolk House, 

3!) Bunker Hill Monument, 

40 Nahant Hotel, - 

41 New England Museum, 

42 New England Cofifee House, 

43 Bromfield House, 

44 Savings Bank, 

45 The Ancient Feather Store, 

46 The Hancock House, 

47 A view of Boston, 

48 Plan of Boston,- 

• 49 Savin Hill Hotel, 

50 Grove Hall, - 
•51 Map of the Environs of Boston, 

52 City Seal, 



160 

180 
ib. 
ib. 
ib. 

192 

204 
ib. 
ib. 
ib. 

209 
216 
ib. 
ib. 
ib. 
211 
221 
223 
233 
243 
245 
246 
284 
289 
291 
316 
816 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

Boston, the metropolis of Massachusetts, contains 
about 80,000 inhabitants," and is situated on a peninsula, 
nearly three miles in length and a little over a mile in 
breadth, of an uneven surface, at the head of Massa- 
chusetts bay, in north latitude 42° 23''. It was settled 
by Governor Winthrop and his associates, in 1630, and 
received its name in honour of the Rev. John Cotton, 
who emigrated from Boston in Lincolnshire, England. 
The name was confirmed by act of Court, September 7, 
1630, 0. S. which may be considered the date of the 
foundation of Boston. Its origi. 1 Indian name was 
Shawmut, and for a short time, previous to receiving 
the present name, it was called Trimountain. 

The neck or isthmus which connects the peninsula to 
the main land, is at the south part of the city, and joins 
to Roxbury. Boston is bounded on the west by Brook- 
line and Charles River, w^hich winds round between 
Copp's Hill and Charlestown, on the north, and empties 
itself into the harbour, which lies on the east, — having 
Dorchester and Roxbury on the south. The surface of 
the peninsula swells into three eminences. Copp's Hill, 

* When comparing the number of inhabitants with other cities 
in ihe United States, the immediate vicinity of Boston should be in- 
cluded ;— which would give a population rising 100,000, residing with 
in three miles of the heart of the citv. 
2 



10 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

which is at the northerly extremity of the city, rises* 
about 50 feet above high water. Fort Hill, another 
eminence on the easterly side, facing the harbour, rises 
about 80 feet above the sea, and the third, which is 
called Beacon Hill, is on the westerly part, and now 
rises 110 feet above high water mark, but was originally 
about 30 feet higher. On the last there were also three 
distinct eminences, which since attained the names of 
Mount Vernon, Beacon and Pemberton Hills. The cir- 




cumstance of these hills being so elevated as to give 
them the appearance of a mountain when viewed by the 
first settlers from the low grounds at Charlestown, pro- 
bably led to their calling the peninsula Trimountain.* 

Most of the land which was originally the surface of 
the peninsula, is either covered with buildings or occu- 
pied as gardens, except the Common, consisting of about 
50 acres of upland and 25 of ffats, which was generous- 
ly reserved by the first settlers for a training field and 
other public purposes, to be kept unimpaired to the lat- 
est posterity. The streets of the oldest parts of the city 
are generally narrow and crooked, and were laid out 
apparently without regard to convenience or taste. But 
in the parts more recently built they are wider, and the 
buildings display elegance and splendor equal to any 
other city in the Union. The communication between 
the country and the city is very convenient, having, be- 
sides the natural passage from Roxbury, three Railroads, 
the Mill'Dam, which forms a grand western avenue 

* From this has arisen the more modern name of Tnmor.i. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 11 

into the city from Brookline and Brighton, and six ex- 
cellent bridges. There is also an extensive ferry be- 
tween Boston and Chelsea, with convenient steam- 
boats for the conveyance of carriages, teams and foot 
passengers. Two of the bridges connect Boston with 
Cambridge, two with Charlestown, and two unite it 
with South Boston, which was set off from Dorchester 
in 1804, and constitutes a part of the city. 

The Harbour extends from Nantasket to the city, and 
spreads from Chelsea and Nahant to Hingham, contain- 
ing about 75 square miles. It is bespangled with up- 
wards of 100 islands or rocks, and receives the waters 
from Mystic, Charles, Neponset and Manatticut Rivers, 
with several other smaller streams. The most noted 
islands are Governor's Island and Castle Island, both 
of which are fortified : the former is now called Fort 
Warren, the latter Fort Independence. They lie about 
two and a half miles easterly from the city, dividing 
the inner from the outer harbour, about one mile distant 
from each other, and the only channel for large ships 
passes between them. Noddle's Island and Bell Isle, 
lie to the north of the city on the Chelsea coast, — the 
first of which has Fort Strong on its eastern extremity, 
built by the citizens in 1814, Deer Island about five 
miles east, and Long Island about five and a half east 
by south, command the outer harbour. Thompson and 
Spectacle Island lie south-easterly towards Squantum, 
and within the parallel of Long Island. Rainsford or 
Hospital Island is about one mile south-easterly from 
Long Island. Gallop, George and Level's Islands lie 
east by south from seven to eight miles from Boston, 
and between Broad Sound and Nantasket Road. Pe- 
thick's Island lies south of Nantasket Road or Hingham 
Bay. The Light House Island, on which the Light 



12 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

House stands, lies south 69= east, 8 2-3 miles. The 
Brewsters, Calf Island, Green Island, &c., lie northerly 
from the Light House, forming a chain of islands, rocks 
and ledges about three miles, to the Graves Rocks, be- 
tween which no ships attempt to pass.* 

The water in this harbour is of a sufficient depth to 
admit 500 ships of the largest class to ride at anchor in 
safety ; while the entrance is so narrow as scarcely to 
admit two ships abreast. Boston is finely situated for 
commerce, and has more shipping than any other city 
in the United States, except New-York. The wharves 
and piers are extensive, — provided with spacious stores 
and warehouses, with every convenience for the safe 
mooring and securing of vessels. 

The city exhibits a very picturesque and beautiful 
view when approached from the sea, and its general 
appearance is much admired by strangers. In many 
respects it has been compared with Liverpool. An 
English traveller observes, that he was much struck 
with the resemblance, in the general aspect and furni- 
ture of the houses ; in the domestic arrangements and 
style of living, and in the manners, habits, and charac- 
ter of the people. 

The town was governed by nine Selectmen, chosen 
by the people annually, till 1822, when it became an in- 
corporated city, and is now governed by a Maj^or, eight 
Aldermen, and forty-eight Common Councilmen, chosen 
annually by the citizens in December. 

Boston is the seat of various literary and scientific in- 
stitutions, and probably no city of its size in the world 
is better supplied with schools. It has been greatly 

* See a complete list of all the islands, with their bcarint^s and di!« 
tances, in Dr. Snow's History of Boston, page 114. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. IS 

distinguished ia the history of this country, in conse- 
■quence of the conspicuous part taken in the events and 
transactions which led to the American Revolution, it 
is also the seat of government. The state Legislature 
convenes here once a year, and the session commences 
on the first Wednesday of January, 

It has the credit of being ' the Literary Emporium of 
the Western World,' and perhaps justly, for it is a fact, 
that a greater portion of the distinguished men of our 
nation have arisen from this city and its vicinity, than 
from any other place in the United States. Besides 
those distinguished for literary acquirements, there are 
many who have been equally distinguished as patriots 
and statesmen. Among the inhabitants of Boston and 
its vicinity, we have descendants of the celebrated John 
Calvin, the reformer of Geneva ; of Sebastian Cabot, 
the distinguished English navigator ; of Dr. Wra. Ames, 
the author of the Medulla Theologiae ; of Bishop Ed- 
mund Grindall ; of John Fox, the Martyrologist, and 
John Rogers, the first who sealed with his life the pro- 
fession of his faith, in the reign of the bigoted Mary. 

BOSTON IN DISTRICTS. 

NORTH BOSTON. 

Boston, like many other large cities, has been, by 
common consent, divided into districts, with names indi- 
cating the location of each. Thus we have North Bos- 
ton, West Boston, South End, and South Boston. The 
first section embraces the north-end of the city, or all 
that part lying north of Faneuil Hall and what was 
the Canal or Mill-Creek. This is the oldest part, and 
.formerly had the advantage of the principal trade. The 
2* 



14 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

streets here are generally narrow and crooked, and re- 
main much as they were when first constructed, on the 
model of the old towns in England, ' The government 
of the town, soon after its settlement, endeavoured to 
correct some of their early errors, yet they seem to 
have had an utter aversion to straight lines or right an- 
gles ; and though their moral walk was upright, they 
took little pains to make their crooked highways straight.' 
This irregularity, however, was partly occasioned by the 
uneven surface of the ground when the city was lirst 
built, and it is by no means certain that this ancient dis- 
position of the streets, manifests a want of taste, or has 
materially injured the appearance of the city. On this 
subject, a writer observes, ' the forms and turnings of 
the streets of London, and other old towns, are produced 
by accident, without any original plan or design ; but 
they are not always the less pleasant to the walker or 
spectator, on that account. On the contrary, had they 
been built on the regular plan of Sir Christopher Wren, 
the effect might have been, as it is in some new places, 
rather unpleasing.' In North Boston the buildings are 
mostly old and built of wood, which exhibit the different 
styles of architecture used for a period of more than a 
century and a half. There are two houses, which from 
the character of the former occupants, may attract the 
notice of strangers. The three story brick building at 
the corner of Salem and Charter Streets, now the Asy- 
lum for Indigent Boys, was erected by Governor Phipps, 
who died in 1695 ; and a very handsome house in Gar- 
den Court Street, North Square, for many years occu- 
pied by William Little, Esq., was the residence of Lieut. 
Gov. Hutchinson. It received particular and trouble- 
some attention in 1766. This and the adjoining house, 
on the south, were built about 1730, and are beauti- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 15 

fill specimens of the perfection to which our me- 
chanics had then arrived. Except a portion of the Mill 
pond land, the only spot not covered by buildings at 
present is on Copp's Hill, and the greater part of 
this is occupied for a Burial Ground. From this hill the 
British cannonaded the town of Charlestown in 1775, 
during the memorable battle of Bunker Hill, when the 
village was principally destroyed by conflagration. — 
They left a small fort standing on this hill, which re- 
mained a favorite resort for the recreation of school 
boys till 1807. The natural situation of this section of 
the city gives it an advantage over any other part ; 
whether considered as a place for comfortable and 
healthy residence, or its convenience for trade. The 
channel of Charles River runs close to the shore, and 
has depth and width sufficient to accommodate ships of 
the greatest burden. The spirit for improvement, re- 
cently awakened in North Boston, shows that its citi- 
zens begin to appreciate their advantages. 

WEST BOSTON. 

This is that part of the city which lies between the 
Common and Canal Street, west of Hanover and Com- 
mont Streets, and has been recently built. The build- 
ings are principally of brick, erected in a handsome 
style, and are mostly used as dwellings. The State 
House, Hospital, Court House, and Jail, are located in 
this section. 

SOUTH END. 

The South End comprises all the peninsula south of 
Summer and Winter Streets, and extends to RoxburJ^ 
About one-fourth of the buildings in this section are of 
wood. Those that have been most recently erected arc 



16 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

of brick and granite, exhibiting an improved style of 
architecture. The buildings here, also, are generally 
occupied for dwellings, except the lower stories of those 
on Washington Street. 

SOUTH BOSTON. 

South Boston is that section of the city which is sepa- 
rated from the peninsula, or the ancient town, by an 
arm of the harbour reaching to Roxbury. It contains 
about 560 acres, and is the newest and most unsettled 
part of the city. Within a few years the population 
has increased rapidly, and a considerable number of 
buildings has been erected, principally of brick. This 
formerly was a part of Dorchester, and embraces Mount 
Washington, the heights so famed in the annals of the 
American Revolution. There are two free bridges that 
connect this with the older part of the city ; — one is at 
the south end near the commencement of the neck; 
the other leads from Wind-Mill Point, and has been re- 
cently built. The Franklin Bank is located in this sec- 
tion of the city. 

THE HEART OF THE CITT. 

There remains one section of Boston, besides the 
Common, which has not been described. This may 
properly be termed the Heart of the City, as it was, 
in 1653, the heart of the town. It is bounded by Sum- 
mer, Winter, Tremont, Hanover and Creek Streets, 
having the harbor on the east. Within these limits the 
principal business of the city is transacted. Here are 
the most extensive wharves, Faneuil Hall, Faneuil- 
Hall Market, all the Banks in the city except two, all 
the Insurance offices except one, the Custom House, 
most of the wholesale merchants' stores, the Athenae- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 17 

um, Supreme Court House, City Hall, Reading Room, 
Post Office, all the newspaper offices, the Boston and 
Tremont Theatres, Tremont House, the Exchange 
Coffee House, Marlboro Hotel, New England Coffee 
House, and many other important places, 

THE COMMON 

Is a heautiful field on the westerly side of the city, and 
in front of the State House, bounded by Beacon, Park, 
Tremont and Boylston Streets, and the waters of Charles 
River bay, containing more than 75 acres, as appears 
by the following survey: — 

The malls on Tremont, Park, Beacon and Charles Street?, 

contain 7 acres, 1 rood, and 6 rods, • - - - 7 16 

The Common enclosed by these malls and Boylston Street, 
exclusive of the Burial Ground, . . „ - 

The Burying Ground contains, _ . . - . 

The Flats west of Charles Street contains, ... 

75 22 

The surface of this Common is agreeably varied by 
several small eminences, the most prominent of which 
is near the centre, and still bears marks of the forti- 
fication thrown up by the British troops quartered here 
in 1775. A little to the north of this eminence is a beau- 
tiful sheet of fresh water, called crescent pond, with 
young and thrifty Elms around its border, which adds 
much to the pleasantness of the Common. This spa- 
cious Park, which contains 578 trees of various sizes, is 
acknowledged to rank before any other in the United 
States ; and from its peculiar situation it is believed, it 
may be made equal if not superior to any similar public 
spot in the world. It is surrounded on three sides by 
splendid private dwellings, principally occupied by the 
owners of the estates. 



41 


13 


1 


3 


3 


25 









18 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Since the settlement of Boston, this land has always 
been the joint stock of the citizens, it never having 
been the property of any individual since the peninsula 
was transferred by Chickatabut, the Indian Sachem, to 
the first settlers.* They generously reserved it ' for a 
training field and other public purposes.' When pro- 
curing a city charter, the citizens had a clause intro- 
duced debarring the City Council the power of ever 
selling the Common or Faneuil Hall. 

SUFFOLK COUNTY. 

, The County of Suffolk was so named in honour of Gov. 
Winthrop, who was from Suffolk in England. It was 
incorporated in 1643. Till the year 1793, it comprised, 
besides Boston, the county of Norfolk, and embraced 23 
towns. At present it is composed of Boston and the 
small but ancient town of Chelsea. By an act of the le- 
gislature passed Feb. 23, 1822, Chelsea is allowed to 
enjoy all privileges relating to the administration of jus- 
tice, notwithstanding the town is exempted from all 
taxes for county purposes. 

THE SUPREME JUDICIAE COURT 

Of Massachusetts, is held in Boston on the first Tuesday 
in March, and the seventh Tuesday next after the first 
Tuesday in September ; and the Court of Common Pleas, 
on the first Tuesday in Januarj'^, April, July, and Oc- 
tober. 

UNITED STATES COURTS. 

Supreme Court of the U. S. is held in Boston, in May 
and October. Joseph Story, Associate Judge. 

" See History of Boston, chap. xii. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 19 



DISTRICT OFFICERS. 

Massachusetts. — John Davis, judge ; Andrew Dun- 
lap, attorney ; Samuel D. Harris, marshal ; Horatio 
Bass, deputy marshal. Marshal's office. Old Court 
House, Court Street. John W. Davis, district clerk ; 
office. Old Court House, Court Street. 



CITY GOVERNMENT. 

The ' City of Boston' was incorporated by the grant 
of a charter, Feb. 23, 1822. By this charter the city is 
divided into twelve Wards, in each of which the in- 
habitants meet at their respective ward rooms, on the 
second Monday in December, annually, and after choos- 
ing ward officers, give in their ballots for a Mayor, 8 
Aldermen, and 48 Common Councilmen ; (4 Council- 
men to represent each ward ) 12 Overseers of the poor, 
and 12 School Committee-men. On the 1st Monday in 
January, the government is organised in Faneuil Hall 
or in the rooms in which they ordinarily meet for public 
business. The Mayor is sworn to a faithful perform- 
ance of his duty, by one of the Judges of the Common- 
wealth, who afterwards administers the oath of office to 
the Aldermen and Common Council elect. After the 
two branches have been organised, they proceed to the 
choice of a city Clerk, by a joint ballot. The board of 
Aldermen, with the Mayor, compose one house, and the 
Common Council compose the other. The first branch 
is elected by general ticket, and the second by wards. 
They generally act separately and have a negative on 
the proceedings of each other. — These boards, in their 
joint capacity, are denominated the City Council, 



20 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



MAYOR AND ALDERMEN. 

The Mayor and Aldermen's room is a beautiful 
apartment in the east end of the City Hall, in the 
second story. A mahogany railing divides the floor in 
such a manner that visitants cannot obtrude. The chairs 
and tables are arranged in a crescent over a rich car- 
pet. In the centre of the room, the Mayor's seat is 
raised about one foot, on either side of which the Al- 
dermen are seated according to seigniority — the eldest 
in office being nearest to the Mayor's right hand. This 
board is generally convened for business on Monday 
and Thursday evenings. The Mayor attends here to 
the duties of his office from nine in the morning till 
two in tiie afternoon. The Aldermen do not receive 
pay for their services. Salary of the Mayor, $2500 a 
year, payable quarterly. The Mayor has the exclu- 
sive power to nominate all officers appointed by the 
Mayor and Aldermen. 

COMMON COUNCIL. 

The Common Council hold their sessions in the same 
building and on the same floor with the board of Alder- 
men. For beauty and convenience of fixtures, this 
hall is not surpassed by any in New England. The 
President's seat is elevated at one side of the room, and 
the seats for the members are very conveniently ar- 
ranged in a semicircular form. Members of this board 
also render their services without compensation. They 
generally hold their sessions on Monday evenings, 
and when any important business makes it necessary, 
they convene oftener than once a week. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 21 

CITV COUNCIL. 

The Mayor, Aldermen and Common Council, in their 
joint capacity, constitute what is denominated the City 
Council. They have power to appoint, prescribe the 
duties, and tix the compensation of all city officers; to 
call officers and boards to account; to determine, annu- 
ally, the number of Representatives the city shall send 
to the Legislature. They also have the power to elect 
a Mayor in case the office becomes vacant. 

CITY CLERK. 

The City Clerk's office is in the Mayor and Alder- 
men's room, where he can be found from 8 in the 
morning till 2 P. M. and from 3 till evening. His sala- 
ry is ^1400 a year. He is also clerk to the Mayor 
and Aldermen, being always present at their meetings. 
It is his duty to publish the bands of matrimony at 
the First Church, Chauncy place, once a week, — grant 
certificates of publishment and receive and pay the 
fee therefor, seventy-five cents, into the City Treas- 
ury. 

CLERK OF THE COMMON COUNCIL. 

There has recently been considerable modification of 
this officer's duty. He is required to be present at the 
meeting of the board, keep a fair record of their doings, 
&c. His salary is $300. His office is in a small room on 
the north side of the City Hall. 

CITY AND COUNTY TREASURER. 

This officer is chosen by concurrent vote, and enters 
into bonds of $60,000, for the faithful discharge of his 
duty. The salary is $3,000 per annum— out of which, 
3 



22 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

he has to pay for clerk hire, fuel and stationary. The 
City Treasurer is also Treasurer for the County. His 
office is in the City Hall, and office hours are from 9 
in the morning, ordinarily, till 2 in the afternoon. 

CITY MARSHAL. 

Formerly, there was an executiv^e officer, in the town 
government, appointed by the Selectmen, who was de- 
nominated the Superintendent of Police, whose duties 
were very similar to those of City Marshal. The office 
of Marshal was created in 1823, and the board of Alder- 
men has the exclusive right of confirming the nomina- 
tion made by the Mayor. He is an executive officer of 
that particular branch of government. The Marshal's 
duties are various and arduous, as he is obliged to pass 
through every street and lane in the city once a week, 
to enforce all the laws and regulations ordained by the 
City Council for the welfare, health and convenience 
of the inhabitants. He is also the Health Commissioner 
of the interior, taking cognizance of all nuisances and 
causing them to be speedily removed. His office is 
kept in the City Hall. Ward books, on which com- 
plainants may note nuisances, are kept here, under the 
Marshal, who thus has a record before him of what re- 
quires immediate attention. Salary |)800 per annum. 



A comparatively new officer — of as much importance 
as any in the municipal government of the city. All 
monies paid by the city pass under his eye. He makes 
estimates of expenditures, and in fine systematizes and 
finishes all the pecuniary concerns of the city. He is 
elected by concurrent vote of the Council, yearly. The 
salary is $1400 per annum. His office is in the City 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 23 

Hall. The hours of business are, ordinarily, from 9 in 
the morning till 1, and from 2 till evening. All ac- 
counts against the city are presented here, and when 
audited by the committee on accounts, an order is given 
on the Treasurer for payment. 

MESSENGPJR. 

The duties of the Messenger are various. He dis- 
tributes notifications to committees, is in attendance on 
the Common Council, while in session, as well as on 
the board of Aldermen. He conveys messages from 
committees, is in attendance through the day, in the 
Mayor's office, and sees that the difierent office rooms 
are kept in order, and lights the rooms for public meet- 
ings. This office is not considered an annual one, but 
is held at the pleasure of the council. He is elected by 
the Mayor and Aldermen, and receives $600 per an- 
num. 

CITY SOLICITOR. 

This officer is chosen annually in June, by concur- 
rent vote. All matters of law, in which the city may 
be interested, are submitted to him for his advice and 
superintendence. Salary, $600. 

RESIDENT PHYSICIAN. 

In the month of June annually a Resident Physician 
is appointed by concurrent vote. His duty obliges him 
to reside during the summer season on Rainsford Island, 
the quarantine station, seven miles from the city, where 
he examines all vessels arriving from between the tro- 
pics, discharges offensive merchandise, lands the sick, 
and takes charge of them in the Hospital, according to 
his best judgment and skill. He is also the city phy- 



24 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

sician, whose duty it is, when any contagious disease 
appears in the city, or on board of any vessel arriving 
in the port, at any season, to take charge of the sick by 
removing them to the quarantine hospital. During the 
winter season he resides in the city, and is attached to 
the health office in the City Hall. Every Monday 
forenoon he attends here to vaccinate the poor that may 
apply, and grant certiiicates which admit them into the 
public schools — no child being allowed to enter that ha? 
not been first vaccinated. The duties of this officer 
may be regarded as particularly arduous and frequent- 
ly dangerous. Salary ^■^1200. Three consulting physi- 
cians are also chosen annually. 

SUPERINTENDENT OF BURIAL GROUNDS. 

His office is in the City Hall, in the same room with 
the City Marshal, where all deaths occurring in the 
city through the day, are regularly reported the follow- 
ing morning. The age, profession, locality, disease and 
place of burial are here noted on the record book. The 
sextons receive their authority from the superintendent, 
and are removed also by him for neglect of duty. Per- 
mission for burying a body — removing one from the 
city — opening or closing a grave or tomb, emanates 
from this officer. All funeral fees are paid to him for 
the use of cars, &c. The salary is $900, and the elec- 
tion annual. 

SUPERINTENDENT OF STREETS. 

To this officer's care is confided the city stables, on 
Merrimack Street, near Haymarket Square. All the 
carts, horses and carriages belonging to the city, are 
kept here — the point of departure for the scavengers 
in the morning and the place of rest for the teams at 



mCTURE OF BOSTON. 25 

night. It is his duty to see that the streets and side- 
walks are kept in repair. Pie is elected by concurrent 
vote of the two boards, in January or February, after 
being first nominated by the Mayor and acted upon by 
the Board of Aldermen. Salary {|1000. 

ASSESSORS. 

There are three in number, denominated the Perma- 
nent Assessors, who are chosen annually, in the month 
of April, by a concurrent x^oice of the two boards, and 
receive as a compensation for their labor, ^1000 each 
per annum in quarterly payments. The Assessors' 
room is in Faneuil Hall, where they may generally be 
found from nine o'clock in the morning till evening. 
There are also chosen dinnuAWy two Assistant Assessors 
from each ward, whose duty is merely to advise and 
explain, without receiving any compensation for their 
services. They also meet at the Assessors' room for 
business. 

OVERSEERS OK THE, POOR, 

One Overseer is elected in each ward annually. — 
This board holds a meeting on the afternoon of the first 
Wednesday in each jnonth. Their office is kept in the 
second story of Faneuil Hall. A clerk is there from 
9 A. M. till evening. 

SCHOOL COMMITTEE 

Are chosen annually, one member from each ward, 
who, together with the Mayor and Aldermen, constitute 
a board, of which the Mayor is usually chairman. They 
fill all vacancies, and make such regulations from time 
to time, as the well-being of the public schools recjuire. 



26 riCTUllE OF BOSTON. 

They hold then- me8tin.<z;s in the Mayor's office, as often 
as circumstances may render it necessary. 

WARD OFFICERS. 

A Warden, as presiding officer, a Clerk, and 5 Inspec- 
tors are chosen, hy the inhabitants of each of the wards, 
in December annually, as officers of the ward. They 
receive the ballots of the legally authorized citizens, 
whose names have been placed on the ward list, at 
all public elections of city, county or state officers. — 
From this board, a return is made by the AVarden and 
Clerk, to the Mayor and Aldermen. They hold their 
meetings in their respective ward rooms, — of which 
there is one in each of the 12 wards. 

OVERSEERS OF THE HOUSE OF CORRECTION. 

This board, consisting of five persons, is appointed by 
the Mayor and Aldermen, and has the immediate over- 
sight of the internal regulations of the House of Correc- 
tion, which is a very strong and well-built edifice, with- 
in the Jail-yard enclosure, in Leverett Street. They 
have also under their superintendence an establishment 
at Fort Warren, and a new House of Correction building 
at South Boston. 

HOUSE OF INDUSTRY. 

By an act of the General Court, the City Council are 
authorized to elect, in the month of May, annually, by 
ballot, nine discreet and suitable citizens, to be Direc- 
tors of the House of Industry, which is located at South 
Boston. The directors divide themselves into three 
committees, and attend daily to the duties of their office, 
in Faneuil Hall. The authority delegated to the direc- 
tors, is exercised by overseers of the poor in other parts 



riCTURE OF BOSTOIN. 27 

of the commonwealtli ; but in the city, the office of 
overseer extends only to provision for the poor at their 
■own habitations. Tliey receive no compensation. A 
•clerk, at a salary of ^500, is in attendance at the office, 
•from 9 A. M. till evenin^^. 

The Superintendent of the House of Industry re- 
ceives for his own and his fnnily's services, $1000, an- 
nually, together with house room and fire wood. 

HOUSE OF REFOKMATION. 

This is contiguous to the House of Industry, and con- 
trolled by the same board of directors. The Superin- 
tendent, who is the instructor of the boys and the moni- 
tor over their conduct and labors, receives a salary of 
5j^750, besides apartments and fuel. 

FIRE DEPARTMENT. 

This is under the immediate direction of a Chief En- 
gineer, and twelve Assistant Engineers, chosen by both 
branches of the Council, annually. The present organ- 
ization of this important department merits the highest 
praise. Office of the Chief Engineer, in the City Hall. 
Salary $1000. 

HEALTH DEPARTMENT. 

This is divided into the external, internal, and that 
which regulates the burial of the dead. The external 
embraces the quarantine of vessels, and takes cogni- 
zance of any sickness, and all nuisances which may be 
brought into port, from foreign parts. The internal 
relates to the cleaning of the streets, emptying of vaults, 
and the removal of all nuisances from the city. This 
is accomplished at an annual expense of about $15,000. 
The city Marshal is also internal health Commissioner, 



28 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

with Vv^Iioni all complaints of this nature are lodged, in 
the Health Office, in the City Hall. 

POLICE COURT. 

The Police Court is held in the brick Court House, 
Court Street. Three justices are appointed by the o;ov- 
ernor and council, who hold their office dui-ing good 
behaviour. Salary, $1500 each. Two clerks are at- 
tached to the court. The first clei'k receives $1400 
and the second $800 yearly. Each justice sits two 
days in the week from 9 A. M. till 1, and from 2 till 
evening, every week day. One of the justices holds a 
court, Wednesday and Saturday for hearing and decid- 
ing civil causes, under $20. 

CONSTABLES. 

Twenty-five constables are usually appointed, an- 
nually, by the Mayor and Aldermen, who are in at- 
tendance on the police, and other courts of the county. 

CAPTAIN OF THE WATCH. 

Appointed by the Mayor and Aldermen, and holds his 
office during good behaviour. He is also superintend- 
ent of lamps. Salary, $800 for both duties. He re- 
gulates and superintends the night patrol, and dis- 
charges or commits all persons apprehended by the 
watch. Watch hours commence at 10 o'clock, and 
continue till daylight. 

BIUNICIPAL COURT. 

This Court, since the establishment of the city gov- 
ernment, has been held in the Court House, Leverett 
Street, on the first Monday in each month, for the trial 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 29 

of persons indicted by the grand jury of the county of 
Suffolk, for offences not punishable with death. The 
Judge is appointed by the governor and council. He 
receives ^700 from the state, and the same sum from 
the city, as yearly salary. By per;nission of the Mayor 
and Aldermen, this court will hold its sessions, for the 
present, in the stone Court House, Court Square, where 
the Grand Jury are desirous of having it permanently 
held. 

PROBATJi OFFICE. 

This office is kept in the basement story of the west 
wing of the Stone Court House. Court days, Monday 
of each week. The office is open daily for the trans- 
action of ordinary business, such as making researcheSj 
and procuring papers from the clerks. 

The records in this department have been preserved 
with admirable care, and present a connected series of 
wills and accounts of administrations, almost unbroken, 
from the foundation of the town. Many of these are 
rare curiosities for the antiquarian, and afford the best 
guides for tracing the genealogy of families, descended 
from the first settlers. 

REGISTER OF DEEDS. 

To be chosen once in five years, by the inhabitants, 
in the several wards, until the city shall compose the 
whole county. Office in the centre of the same build- 
ing Vv'ith the Probate office, on the first floor.* His com- 
pensation arises from fees. 

* Many of the deeds and papers l)eloiigii)g to this office, uhicli were 
carried to Halifax hy llie British ufficcra during the rcvohitionary war, 
have never been restored. 



30 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

The following persons have been chosen to the office 
of Mayor since the establishment of a city government. 

1 John Phillips from 1822 to 1823 

2 Josiah Quincy 1823 " 1829 

3 Harrison Gray Otis 1S29 " 1832 

4 Charles Wells 1S32 " 

BOSTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 

The great and increasing interest manifested in this 
city on the subject of juvenile instruction is gratifying. 
The system so early com.menced here is spreading over 
the whole land, and pervading in a great measure the 
popular mind in almost every section of our republic. 
The grand pi-inciple, that the minds of the rising gen- 
eration are a species of public property, demanding in 
an eminent degree the guardian care of government, 
seems to be duly understood by the civil authorities, and 
rapidly gaining favor among the great body of the peo- 
ple. The New England states, as well as this metro- 
polis, have long enjoyed the enviable honour of having 
bestowed the highest attention upon the education of 
their youth, and extended the most liberal and efficient 
aid towards the establishment of seminaries of learning 
of every class. 'Knowledge is Power,' says a learned 
writer ; and for the truth of this saying, look over our 
commonwealth, and witness the intellectual strength of 
our social compact. From what source do our citizens 
draw the nutriment which gives them power to form 
such a mental fabric ? The answer is, from the foun- 
tains of knowledge which are opened in every town, at 
the public expense, for the use of all who will partake 
of their benefit. If we turn our thoughts to the ancient 
republics, and ask what elevated Greece to her preemi- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 31 

iient standing ? History answers, the force of educa- 
tion. The knowledge which irradiated these repubUcs 
emanated from the schohirs of Athens, and from a few 
eminent philosophers, who shed over their land a light 
which continues to illumine every country. Our sys- 
tem of education is founded on a plan that must reflect 
a genial radiance on every citizen and scatter a genial 
light over our republic, which Greece and Rome never 
enjoyed. The youth in Boston have reason to think 
highly of their exalted privileges, which owe their 
origin and growth to the liberal spirit of their enlight- 
ened and pious forefathers. 

Primary Schools are kept at public expense in differ- 
ent parts of the city, where children, from the age of 
four to seven years, are taught the alphabet, spelling 
and reading. At the age of seven, if they can read ' the 
English language, by spelling the same,' they are ad- 
mitted into the grammar schools, where they remain 
till they arrive at the age of fourteen. If they have 
made sufficient progress, they are admitted into the 
Latin School at nine, and the English High School at 
twelve years of age, where they remain until fitted for 
cpllege or other situations in life. It has been remark- 
ed, that some of the brightest scholars, examined for 
admission at Harvard College, were from our public 
schools. 

PRIMARY SCHOOLS. 

These schools were first established by a vote of the 
town, passed June 11, 1818, which granted ^5,000 for 
that purpose the first year. Since that time, the sys- 
tem has been much developed, and so far extended as 
to increase the annual appropriation to about ^15,000. 
There is about 60 of these schools, in each of which be- 



32 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

tvveen 50 and 60 scholars receive instruction, the year 
round — the annual expense of which is less than five 
dollars each. Women are employed in these schools 
as instructers, and the whole is under the immediate 
care and management of a board, consisting of one mem- 
ber for each school, and a standing committee of seven, 
and a treasurer ; this board is divided into district com- 
mittees, who are considered responsible for the good 
state of the schools in their jurisdiction. Each school is 
visited once every month by at least one member of 
its district committee, to learn and report their condition 
to the whole committee. 

GRAMMAR AND WRITING SCHOOLS. 

These free schools commenced with the first settlers 
of Boston, but the system was not matured to any great 
extent till about the close of the last century, when an 
unusual interest was excited on the subject of educa- 
tion, and several important changes were effected. 

These schools are separated into two rooms, the up- 
per being occupied for the reading, and the lower for 
the writing department, the two branches being kept 
entirely distinct. Each room is provided with a master 
and assistant, and is calculated to accommodate about 
300 children. As writing and arithmetic only are 
taught at the writing schools, the masters are selected 
with special reference to their qualifications in these 
branches ; but the law requires that the master of the 
grammar or reading school, shall have been ' educated 
at some college or university, and be a citizen of the 
United States by birth or naturalization.' 

The Grammar schools, and those which follow, are 
under the superintendence of a School Committee, con- 
sisting of twenty-one gentlemen ; the Mayor and eight 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 33 

Aldermen being members ex officio, and one from each 
of the twelve wards being chosen by the citizens an- 
nually. These are divided into sub-committees for the 
more convenient examination of the schools, which 
they are required by their own rules to make once a 
month, and by a law of the state twice a year. At the 
semi-annual visitation in August, from three to six sil- 
ver medals, furnished from a fund, bequeathed for this 
purpose by Franklin, are distributed to the most distin- 
guished boys in each of the reading schools, and the 
same number in each of the writing schools. In 1822, 
medals were extended to the girls, in equal numbers 
to each school. The distribution of these rewards of 
merit form one of the most interesting exercises of our 
public free schools. 

The number of children varies in the different 
schools, but by the returns made, the average number 
is about 375. The salary of the master is $1200, and 
that of the assistant $1000 ; making the expense of tui- 
tion alone less than 6 dollars a year for each child. 

There are eight schools of this description besides the 
^African school in Belknap Street ; and according to an 
estimate made the school houses belonging to the city 
are worth $200,000. 

As a tribute of gratitude to the memory of some of 
the most eminent patrons of letters and benefactors of 
the public institutions of Boston, they are named as fol- 
lows, (beginning at the North part of the city,) viz. 

The Eliot School, situated in North Bennet Street, 
after the Rev. Dr. John Eliot. 

The Hancock School, in Hanover Street, after Gov. 
John Hancock. 

* This school is in part supported by the city, and partly by a pro- 
vision in the will of Abiel Smitii, Esq. 
4 



34 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

The Mayhew School, in Hawkins Street, after the 
Rev. Dr. Jonathan Mayhew. 

The Bowdoin School, in Derne Street, in honor of Gov. 
Bowdoin. 

The Boylston School, on Fort Hill, after Thomas 
Boylston, Esq. 

The Adams School, in Mason Street, after Samuel 
Adams, Esq. 

The Franklin School, in Washington Street, after 
Dr. Benjamin Franklin. 

The Hawes School, South Boston, after Mr. John 
Hawes. 

THE ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL, 
Pinckney Street. 

This school was established by a vote of the town in 
1S20, expressly for the purpose of affording to lads in- 
tending to become merchants or mechanics, better 
means of instruction than were provided at any of the 
public schools. The school went into operation in May, 
1821. The annual examination for admission is in Au- 
gust. 

The course for the first year includes Intellectual 
and Written Arithmetic, Geography and the use of the 
Globes, exercises in Grammar, General History, and 
History of the United States, Book keeping by single 
entry. Elements of some Arts and Sciences, Composi- 
tion and Declamation. That for the second and third 
year embraces Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry and 
its applications. Book keeping by double entry, vari- 
ous branches of Natural Philosophy, Natural History, 
Chemistry, Moral Philosophy and Natural Theology, 
Rhetoric, Evidences of Christianity, Intellectual Phi- 
losophy, Political Economy, and Logic. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 85 

Instruction in the French Language has also been 
introduced, as a means of lessening the difficulties that 
are met with in teaching the vernacular language by 
itself, and also as being very necessary to the education 
of a merchant. 

The establishment of this school forms an era in the 
history of free education in Boston. Its present high 
reputation and grovving importance, while they render 
it an object of increasing interest, promise extensive 
and lasting utility; and furnish a gratifying proof of the 
wisdom of that policy which brings forward, to places 
of high responsibility, young men of talents and learn- 
ing, who have a reputation and fortune to gain. 

THE LATIN GRAMMAR SCHOOL, 

School Street. 

This ancient and venerable institution, so intimately 
connected with the early history of Boston, and of its 
learned men in generations that are past, seems to de- 
mand a moment's pause. It is grateful to look back 
upon the picture of primitive, but enlightened simpli- 
city exhibited in the early history of New England, and 
to arrest, as far as possible, the progress of decay by 
■which its already indistinct lines are rapidly fading from 
our view. 

There appears to have been no public accounts pre- 
served of the first three years after the settlement of 
Boston ; but they did not suffer a longer period to elapse 
than until the 13th of the 2d month, (viz. April) 1635, 
before it is stated as a part of the transactions of a public 
meeting, ' Likewise it was generally agreed upon that 
our brother Philemon Purmont shalbe intreated to be- 
come scholemaster for the teaching and nourtering of 



36 PICIURE OF BOSTON. 

children with us.' This was the beginning of the Latin 
School. 

The whole school house in School Street is now ap- 
propriated to this school. The catalogue contains near 
250 scholars. These are distributed into six separate 
apartments, under the care of the same number of in- 
structers ; viz. a principal, or head master, a sub-mas- 
ter, and four assistants. For admission, boys must be 
at least nine years old ; able to read correctly and with 
fluency, and to write a running hand ; they must know 
all the stops, marks, and abbreviations, and have suffi- 
cient knowledge of English Grammar to parse common 
sentences in prose. The time of admission is the Fri- 
day and Saturday next preceding the Commencement 
at Cambridge, which two days are devoted to the ex- 
amination of candidates. The regular course of instruc- 
tion lasts five years ; and the school is divided into five 
classes, according to the time of entrance. 

These are the means provided at the public ex- 
pense, for the gratuitous instruction of the children of 
all classes of the citizens of Boston. They are offered 
equally to all. The poorest inhabitant may have his 
children instructed from the age of four to seventeen, 
at schools, some of which are already equal, if not su- 
perior to any private schools in our country ; and all of 
them may be made so. If a child be kept at a Primary 
School from four to seven, and then atone of the Gram- 
mar Schools until nine, and from that time till seventeen 
at the Latin, and the English Classical School, there is 
no question bat he will go through a more thorough 
and complete course of instruction, and in reality enjoy 
greater advantages than are provided at many of the 
respectable colleges in the Union. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 37 

By the report of a sub-committee, appointed to inform 
the Legislature of the number of pupils taught in pub- 
lic and priv'ate schools in this city, and the expense of 
their tuition, it appeared that the aggregate of pupils 
amounted to 10,636, in 1826. Of this number, 7,044 
were in the public, and 3,592 in private schools. The 
whole annual expense attending their instruction was 
estimated at $152,722 — of which individuals paid 
$97,305, and the city $55,417. The whole number of 
private and public schools was ascertained to be 215. 
The number since has been greatly increased. 

SABBATH SCHOOLS. 

There is much added to the means for obtaining a 
free education in Boston, by the numerous Sabbath 
Schools established by different religious societies. The 
number of children that receive instruction at these 
schools, is found to be rising 4,700. 

INFANT SCHOOLS. 

Before quitting the subject of schools, it is proper to 
take notice of the recent introduction of Infant Schools, 
which are designed to supply completely all that was 
wanting to perfect our system of free education. Sunday 
schools had already provided for the wants of uneducat- 
ed adults. Infant schools take the child from its mo- 
ther's arms, and fit it by natural gradations of task and 
play, for a place on the primary benches at four 
years of age. Several of these schools have been 
established: The two first were located, one in Salem 
Street, at the north part of the city, and the other in 
Bedford Street, south end. Visitors speak in terms of 
admiration of the scenes which these schools afford. 
4* 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



BOSTON ATHENAEUM. 

This establishment owes its origin to several public 
spirited gentlemen, who, in 1806, issued proposals for 
providing and opening a public reading room, to con- 
tain all the valuable periodical journals, and such books 
as would serve for general reference. The proprietors 
were incorporated under the name of the ' Boston Athe- 
naeum,' in 1807. The price of a share is $300, which 
entitles the owner to three tickets of admission. A life 
subscriber pays $100. Annual subscribers are admit- 
ted at $10 per annum. There are 258 proprietors of 
shares ; about 50 life subscribers, and about the same 
number of annual subscribers. Proprietors and life 
subscribers have the right of introducing an unlimited 
number of strangers, not residing within 20 miles of 
Boston ; who are entitled to admission, for the term of 
one month, after having their names recorded. 

The Governor, and Lieutenant Governor, Counsellors, 
Senators, Members of the House of Representatives, 
during the session of the Legislature, Judges of the dif- 
ferent Courts, President and Officers of Harvard Col- 
lege, have free admission to the Reading Room and Li- 
brary. 

The spacious and commodious edifice occupied for this 
institution is situated near the head of Pearl Street, the 
better half of which was the gift of the late James Per- 
kins, Esq. On entering, the visitor finds himself sur- 
rounded with the busts and statues of heroes and learn- 
ed men of antiquity. At his left, on the first floor, is 
the Reading Room, in which are found the newspapers 
and journals of the present day, with complete files of 
periodical publications for many years back. In this 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 89 

room it is contrary to etiquette, to hold any conversa- 
tion whatever. On the right is a large and convenient 
room where the proprietors hold their meetings, and the 
trustees transact their business. This room is tastefully 
decorated with statuary and paintings. The Librarian's 
room and a conversation room, complete the apartments 
on the lower story. The second and third story contain 
the library, which is classed and neatly arranged, on 
shelves with numbers, and a catalogue for each de- 
partment. The whole number of volumes is above 
27,500. 

There are belonging to the Athenaeum, two cases, 
containing 2065 silver and copper coins and medals, be- 
sides 25 medals of gold, 26 of silver, 12 of white metal, 
27 of base metal, and 281 of copper ; 2988 ancient cop- 
per coins, 256 modern silver coins, and 7822 modern 
copper coins, together with a series of 180 Napoleon 
medals, making in all 13,627 medals and coins, many 
of which are very rare and valuable. The librarian at- 
tends to the interior concerns of the institution, and un- 
der his direction the reading room and library is kept 
open from eight o'clock in the morning till nine in the 
evening, every day except Sunday. 

In 1826, a number of the most enterprising proprie- 
tors who were desirous of extending the usefulness of 
the institution, urged the necessity of adopting meas- 
ures to enlarge the establishment. Subscriptions were 
soon raised, which amounted to about $45,000. To ac- 
complish the objects they had in view, a new building 
was erected from a plan by Mr. Willard, in the rear of 
the main building of the Athenaeum, which is entirely 
detached from it, and is called the Athenaeum Gallery. 



40 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

THE ATHENAEUM GALLERY. 

The building is of three stories ; is 60 feet in length 
by 50 in width, and cost, exclusive of land, upwards of 
$13,000. The lower story comprises four rooms, one of 
which contains the apparatus for the lectures, another 
is occupied by the Boston Society of Natural History, for 
their cabinet ; and the third for the Massachusetts Med- 
ical Society, whose library is also here. The fourth, till 
recently has been occupied by the Mechanic Institu- 
tion, for their extensive philosophical apparatus. The 
second story, which is 18 feet high, consists of a lecture 
room conveniently arranged with circular seats on an 
inclined plane, and sufficiently spacious to accommodate 
500 auditors. The upper story forms a single room, 50 
by 60 feet square, is upwards of 20 feet high, and lighted 
only from the top, in a manner peculiarly adapted for 
the exhibition of Paintings, to which purpose this room 
has been appropriated. The first exhibition was open- 
ed May 10, 1827, consisting of pictures, loaned by in- 
dividuals, incorporate bodies, and the productions of 
American artists, which presented a collection of rich 
treasures in the arts. The receipts during the two 
months of this exhibition, amounted to $4,006. The ex- 
hibitions are opened annually. Admittance, 25 cents ; 
season tickets 50 cents. 

The Athenseum is now placed on a sure and perma- 
nent footing. The incorporation has an annual income 
arising from rents, the receipts of the exhibition of 
paintings, and the interest received on about $40,000. 

AMERICAN ACADEMY OF ARTS AND SCIENCES. 

The formation of a Society in Boston for promoting 
useful knowledge had been in contemplation for many 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 41 

years, but the design was never vigorously pursued till 
the end of the year 1779, when many gentlemen in va- 
rious parts of the commonwealth, determined to use 
their endeavours to have one formed upon a liberal and 
extensive plan, and at the same time to have it estab- 
lished upon a firm basis by the sanction of the legisla- 
ture. The Society took the name of The American 
Academy of Arts and Sciences. The charter was 
granted May 4, 1780. The design of the institution is 
the promotion and encouragement of the knowledge of 
the antiquities of America, and the natural history of 
the country, and to determine the uses to which the 
various productions of the country may be applied, to 
promote and encourage medical discoveries, mathema- 
tical disquisitions, philosophical inquiries and experi- 
ments ; astrological, meteorological, and geographical 
observations ; improvements in agriculture, arts, manu- 
factures and commerce ; and, in fine, to cultivate every 
art and science, which may tend to advance the interest, 
honor, dignity, and happiness of a free, independent and 
virtuous people. The Academy has published memoirs 
of its transactions in four quarto volumes, of which the 
last appeared in 1821. Its sessions are held in Boston, 
and its valuable library of about 2000 volumes, is de- 
posited at No. 50 State Street. 

Gov. Bowdoin was elected its first President, and con- 
tinued in the office until his death, in November, 1790. 
This learned society originally consisted of 62 resident 
members ; and some other distinguished men abroad 
were soon after elected as honorarj'^ members. It has 
always sustained a respectable character in the estima- 
tion of learned foreigners ; and its publications are hon- 
orable to the literature of our country. George Wash- 



42 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

ington and John Adams, presidents of the United States, 
were members of this Society. 

MASSACHUSETTS HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 

This Society was incorporated, Feb. li), 1794. Its 
design is to collect, preserve, and communicate mate- 
rials for a complete history of this country, and of all 
valuable efforts of the ingenuity and industry of its in- 
habitants. In pursuance of this design, they have al- 
ready amassed a large collection of books, pamphlets, 
and manuscripts. The Society's library and museum 
occupy a spacious apartment over the Savings Bank, 
Tremont Street. They have published their collections 
in 22 octavo volumes, which include Hubbard's History 
of New England, and Johnson's Wonder-working Provi- 
dence. The Society was at first supported by the la- 
bors of a few ; it has since enrolled among its members 
many of our first scholars, and now claims a very con- 
siderable reputation among the literary institutions of 
America. 

BOSTON LIBRARY SOCIETY. 

This Society was incorporated June 17, 1794. The 
object of the associates was to make a collection of 
books in the sciences and general literature, for popu- 
lar use ; more particularly of those works, which, from 
their costliness or peculiar value, are not generally 
found in private collections, and cannot conveniently be 
obtained by individuals of moderate fortune. The plan 
has been diligently and successfully pursued, and with 
the aid of occasional donations, the library is now as 
complete in works of general utility, as any similar in- 
stitution in this part of the country. The books amount 
to about 7000 volumes, and their number is constantly 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 43 

augmenting. To gratify the increasing taste for foreign 
literature, a collection of the best French authors has 
been added. For some years after the library was 
founded, the shares were not transferable, and subscri- 
bers had only the use of the library for their lives; 
consequently, by the death of original proprietors, 
many shares have fallen into the common stock, which 
has given to the shares of present proprietors a value far 
beyond their cost. It is computed, that a share at the 
present price, gives a property in the common stock 
greatly exceeding the cost of a share, exclusive of the 
value of the hall, which is the property of the corpora- 
tion. The price of a share is $25, subject usually to an 
annual tax of $2, for the increase of the library, and 
the charge of maintaining it. Shares are now transfer- 
able, and do not cease at the death of the proprietor. — 
The library is kept at the hall, over the arch in Frank- 
lin Street, and is opened on the afternoon of Thursdays, 
and the forenoon and afternoon of Saturdays, for the des- 
livery and return of books. 

COLUMBIAN LIBRARY, 

This library is kept in Boylston Hall, and is estab- 
lished on principles, somewhat similar to those of the 
Boston Library Society. In contains 4,800 volumes, 

CIRCULATING LIBRARIES. 

Boston contains a number of respectable establish- 
ments of this description, of which the Union Library, 
Shakspeare Library, Suffolk Library, Tremont Library, 
Boylston Library, and the Washington Library are the 
most extensive. The terms of letting Looks are nearly 
the same in all the Circulating Libraries, except the 



44 PICTURE OF BOttTUlV. 

yearly subscriptions, the price of which is fixed, in some? 
degree, in proportion to the extent of the Library. In 
most instances it is required that strangers leave as a 
deposit the value of the books they take. 

UNION CIRCULATING LIBRARY. 

This is the oldest and most extensive of the circulat- 
ing libraries. It is owned and kept by Col. S. H. 
Parker, at No. 164 Washington Street, and contains 
about 8,000 volumes. The terms to those that sub- 
scribe to take out books, for one year, is $7; for 6 
months f 4 ; three months $2,50, and for one month $1. 
To non-subscribers 6 cents for each duodecimo or 
smaller volume ; for each octavo 12 cents, and for 
larger works, 25 cents per week. 

BOYLSTON CIRULATING LIBRARY. 

This Library is located in the vicinity of Boylston 
Market, No. 364 Washington Street. It is owned by 
Mr. David Francis, who has furnished it with a greater 
number of foreign periodicals, than is found in any other 
circulating library in the city. It contains about 3,000 
volumes. 

SHAKSPEARE LIBRARY. 

This Library is owned by Mr. Charles Callender, and 
is kept at No. 10, Franklin Street. It contains about 
1,500 volumes ; a very considerable number of which 
are foreign publications. 

TREMONT LIBRARY. 

This is kept by B. Franklin Edmands, in Tudor's 
buildings, Court Street, near the Old Court House, ami 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 46 

contains about 2,000 volumes, principally miscellaneous 
works. 

There is also another library with the same name in 
Tremont Street, near Pemberton Hill. 

WASHINGTON LIBRARY 

Is owned by Mr. John Allen, and is kept at No. 11 
School Street. It is supplied with a collection of useful 
and modern publications. 

MECHANIC APPRENTICES' LIBRARY. 

This Library, the first of the kind known to have 
been established in any country, v^^as commenced on 
the 22d of February, 1820, under the supervision of the 
Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association. It 
contains about 2,000 volumes, and is under the manage- 
ment of the Mechanic Apprentices' Library Associa- 
tion. 

The benefits of this library are extended to all ap- 
prentices in the city, who can obtain a certificate from 
their masters, that they are worthy of such privilege. 
This institution is calculated to have a beneficial effect 
on the minds and morals of those vv^ho enjoy its advan- 
tages. ' As a proof of the high estimation in which ap- 
prentices' libraries are held, we have only to notice 
the increasing popularity of them throughout our coun- 
try ; and even England, in this instance, has not dis- 
dained to copy from her descendants.' 

MERCANTILE LIBRARY. 

This Library was founded March 11, 1820, under the 
patronage of some of the most respectable and wealthy 
merchants of Boston. The society consists of about 200 
5 



46 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

members-, principally between the age of 13 and 21, 
who are engaged in the mercantile business. Each in- 
dividual on joining the society, adds a volume to the li- 
brary, worth at least one dollar, and pays $2 per an- 
num, as long as he remains a member. The library 
room, at No. 92 Washington Street, is also appropriated 
as a Reading Room for the members, where they as- 
semble every evening except Sunday during the winter 
season, and three evenings in a week during the warm 
weather. The library comprises about 3,000 volumes 
of choice works, and is annually increasing, 

PERIODICALS. 

The credit of first introducing the Art of Printing inta 
this country, belongs to Massachusetts,* and that of issu- 
ing the first newspaper in North America, belongs to 
Boston. This was ' Tlie Boston JVews Letter,' com- 
menced by John Campbell, Esq. on the 24th of April, 
1704, which was continued for nearly 72 years. The 
Independefit Chronicle may be considered the oldest 
paper in this city, although it has changed its name, on 
passing through different hands, and undergone various 
alterations since its first establishment. It was com- 
menced at Salem, in 176S, with the title of The Essex 
Gazette. The oldest surviving paper established in 
Boston since the revolution, is the Columbian Centinel, 
which was commenced, March 24, 1784, by Benjamin 
Russell, Esq. who continued its proprietor and editor, 
until November, 1828. 

The following is a list of Periodicals published in Bos- 
ton, in 1832, showing the price per annum, and the days 
of the week on which they are published. The Daily 
Advertiser and several of the other newspapers, are 

+ At Cambridgejin 1639. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



47 



printed on Power Presses, driven by steam and hand 
power, which enables the pubUshers to throw^off about 
600 per hour. 



NEWSPAPERS. 

Boston Daily Advertiser and Patriot, Daily, 

Daily Columbian Centinel, " 

Boston Courier, <* 

Daily Evening Transcript, " 

Boston Morning Post, " 

Boston Daily Advocate, " 

Daily Commercial Gazette, " 

Boston Daily Atlas, « 

Boston Daily Globe, " 
Indepen. Chron. & Bos. Patriot, Wednesday and Saturday, 

Columbian Centinel, '• " 



New England Palladium, 

Commercial Gazette, 

Boston Courier, 

American Traveller, 

Boston Press, 

Evening Gazette, 

New England Galaxy, 

Boston Statesman, 

Boston Weekly Messenger and Mass. Journal 

Christian Register, 

Independent Messenger, 

Saturday Morning Transcript, 

New England Christian Herald, 

Boston Christian Herald, 

Boston Telegraph, 

Trumpet and iTniversalist Magazine, 

The Universalist, 

Boston Recorder, 

Youth's Companion, 



Tuesday and Friday, 
Monday and Thursday, 

(( a 

Tuesday and Friday, 

u u 

Saturday evening, 

Saturday, 

Saturday morning, 

Thursday, 
Saturday, 
Thursday, 
Saturday, 
Wednesday, 



Saturday, 
Wednesday, 



$8 00 
8 00 
8 00 
4 00 

4 00 
8 00 
8 00 

5 00 

3 50 

4 00 
4 00 
4 00 
4 00 
4 00 
4 00 
4 00 
300 
300 
3 00 

2 00 

3 00 
2 00 

2 00 
300 

3 00 
3 00 

2 00 
1 00 

3 00 
1 60 



48 PICTURE OF BOSTON 



New England Farmer, 




Wednesday, 


$3 00 


Christian Watchman, 




Friday, 


3 00 


Boston Masonic Mirror, 




Wednesday, 


3 00 


Boston Investigator, 




Friday, 


2 00 


The Liberator, 




Saturday, 


2 00 


Family Lyceum, 




u 


1 00 


Free Press, 




Wednesday, 


3 00 


Christian Soldier, 




Semi-monthly, 


1 00 


U. S. Catholic Intelligencer, 




Friday, 


300 


Juvenile Rambler, 




Wednesday, 


1 00 


New England Artisan, 




Thursday, 


2 00 


MAGAZINES. 






Medical and Surgical Journal, 




Weekly, 


3 00 


The Athenaeum, 




Semi-monthly, 


5 00 


Young Mechanic, 




Monthly, 


1 00 


The Essayist and Young Men's 


Magazine, 


« 


2 00 


Monthly Traveller, 




'« 


200 


Ladies' Magazine, 




" 


300 


Missionary Herald, 




u 


1 50 


Spirit of the Pilgrims, 




u 


300 


American Baptist Magazine, 




w 


1 SO 


Christian Teacher's Manual, 




" 


200 


Unitarian Advocate, 




« 


200 


Morning Star, 




(( 


1 00 


New Jerusalem Magazine, 




" 


2 SO 


Liberal Preacher, 




{( 


1 00 


Baptist Preacher, 




u 


1 00 


Christian Examiner, 


ever}' two months. 


3 00 


The Expositor, and Universalist Review, 


" 




Juvenile Miscellany, 


(i 


" 


2 00 


Stage Register, 


" 


" 


1 00 


Christian Visitant, 


" 


" 


1 SO 


American Annals of Education, 


Quarterly 


and semi-monthly, 


4 00 


North Anaerican Reriew, 


Quarterly, 


6 00 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 49 

Ainericau Jurist, (luarteily, $ 5 00 

Friend of Peace, " 1 00 

British Quarterly Review, (reprinted) « 5 00 

Edinburgh Magazine, " " 5 00 

Massachusetts Journal of Agriculture, Semi-annual, 1 00 

The Token and Atlantic Souvenir, (a new year anuuary) Annual, 3 SO 

Boston Directory, « 1 00 

Massachusetts Register, " 1 GO 



CHARITABLE AND OTHER SOCIETIES. 

Besides the public provision for the destitute of all 
descriptions, which is so ample that no one need to suf- 
fer any privation, who is able to make known his case 
to an overseer of the poor, there are numerous societies 
established in Boston, whose object is the alleviation of 
human misery. 

MASSACHUSETTS HUMANE SOCIETY. 

The Humane Society was established by law, Feb. 
23, 1791. The design of their institution is ' the re- 
covery of persons who meet with such accidents as 
produce in them the appearance of death, and for pro- 
moting the cause of humanity, by pursuing such means, 
from time to time, as shall have for their object, the 
preservation of human life, and the alleviation of its 
miseries.' 

MASSACHUSETTS CHARITABLE FIRE SOCIETY. 

The object of this institution is to provide means to 
relieve such of the inhabitants of this commonwealth as 
may unfortunately suffer by fire, and to reward the in- 
dustry and ingenuity of those who may invent useful 



50 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

machines for extinguishing fires, or make extraordinary- 
personal exertion in the time of such calamity, or make 
such discoveries for preventing its devastation as shall 
be thought worthy of their patronage. The Society 
wa.s incorporated June 25, 1794. 

MASSACHUSETTS CUAEITABLE MECHANIC ASSOCIATION. 

This society was instituted March 15, 1795, by a 
number of public spirited individuals of the most indus- 
trious and respectable of the mechanic interest, of va- 
rious occupations, residing in different parts of the town, 
who styled themselves the ' Boston Association of Me- 
chanics.' In a few months the society increased much 
in numbers, resources, and usefulness. With the in- 
crease of its numbers and means, its views became en- 
larged, its utility more apparent, and a laudable emula- 
tion pervaded a considerable part of the community to 
raise the mechanic interest and character to its just 
grade in society. The associates, in order to extend 
the benefits of the institution, altered the original ap- 
pellation, and voted to assume the title of ' The Asso- 
ciation of Mechanics of the Commonwealth of Massa- 
chusetts,' which gave opportunity for qualified citizens 
throughout the commonwealth to offer themselves as 
candidates for membership ; and some few embraced this 
privilege and became members, besides those residing 
in Boston. But the society laboured under many disad- 
vantages previous to its incorporation, March 8, 1806, 
eleven years from its institution ; when its fair claims 
became acknowledged, the characters and conduct of its 
founders, officers and members, were deemed sufficient 
pledges of the purity of their intentions ; and one of its 
primary principles being engrafted in its title, it was, by 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 51 

an act of the Legislature, incorporated by its present 
name. There is a library of about 2,000 volumes plac- 
ed under the superintendence of the Mechanic Appren- 
tices' Library Association, for their use, and for the use 
of the apprentices of tlje members of the Mechanic As- 
sociation. The society defrays the expense of an even- 
ing school for their apprentices during the winter sea- 
son ; and are also at the expense of a course of scien- 
tific lectures, which usually commence in October. 
Each member is entitled to receive a ticket for himself 
and another to admit a lady or an apprentice. The In- 
stitution has about $15,000 in funds, and the number of 
members is about 550. 

THE BOSTON DISPENSARY. 

The Boston Dispensary was instituted in 1795, and 
incorporated Feb. 26, 1801. At the expense of this 
institution, the poor are supplied with medicines, and 
they are gratuitously attended bj^ physicians appointed 
yearly by the managers. A subscriber of ^5 is enti- 
tled to tickets for four patients, which number he may 
keep constantly on the list of the Dispensary. 

BOSTON FEMALE ASYLUM 

Was instituted Sept. 25, 1800, by a number of ladies, 
who associated for the charitable purpose of relieving, 
instructing, employing, and assisting female orphan 
children. They were incorporated Feb. 26, 1803. The 
success which has attended this institution has equalled 
the most benevolent expectations. The society has 
rescued from ruin and distress a great number of father- 
less and motherless girls, who have uncier its protection 



52 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

been nourished and brought up to habits of industry and 
piety. The asylum-house is situated in Essex Street, 
corner of Lincohi Street. 

THE BOSTON ASV'LUM FOR INDIGENT BOYS 

Was incorporated Feb. 25, 1814. Its object is to make 
similar provisions for orphan boys, to that which has 
been so usefully made for girls by the Female Asylum. 
This institution occupies the large house on the corner 
of Salem and Charter Streets, formerly the residence of 
Sir William Phipps. 

THE HOWARD BENEVOLENT SOCIETY 

Was organised June 1, 1812, and incorporated Feb. 16, 
1818. Their object is to search out and administer to 
the wants of the sick and the infirm, ' more especially 
of that class of our fellow-citizens, who, not being con- 
nected with any of the religious societies, are in no way 
benefited by the provisions made in most of them for 
the relief of their poor.' 

NEW ENGLAND INSTITUTION FOR THE EDUCATION OF THE BLIND. 

The act of incorporation for this Institution was grant- 
ed in 1829. It was opened with seven scholars, in 
September, 1832, by blind teachers. 

The scholars are taught to read with their fingers 
raised letters made tangible ; to write legibly ; to un- 
derstand geography, mathematics, &c. besides music. 
They also make mats, moccasons, &c. 

The Institution may be visited on Thursdays, from 3 
to 4 P. M. by permission of one of the trustees, or of 
the Superintendent, Dr. S. G. Howe. It is located at 
140 Pleasant Street. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 5S 



THK BOSTON SOCIKTY 

For the Religious and Moral Instruction of the Pour, 
was incorpoi-ated in the year 1820. Through the exer- 
tions of this Society, schools for the poorhave been insti- 
tuted in various parts of the city, the gospel has been 
preached to them, and pains have been taken to raise the 
standard of moral character among them. 

MASSACHUSETTS CHARITABLE EYi; AKD EAR INFIRMARY. 

This benevolent Institution Vvas founded in 1824, 
by the influence of several gentlemen of the tirst re- 
spectability in this city. The amount soon subscribed 
placed it on a permanent basis. This institution is lo- 
cated near the corner of Court and Tremont Streets, 
where all diseases of the eye and ear are treated with 
the utmost skill, by experienced physicians, free of ex- 
pense to the poor. 

LYiNG-IN IIOSPITAI.. 

This institution was established in 1S32, and was 
first opened for the admission of patients on the 20th of 
September, at No. 718 Washington Street, by a vote 
of the Trustees. 

THE PENITENT FEMALEs' REFUGE 

Is an institution formed with the hope of reclaiming 
from the paths of vice and ruin, a portion of those un- 
happy women, whose false steps have blasted their 
prospects of enjoying a reputable standing in life. A 
house of refuge is opened by this society, for such as 
are sincerely desirous of returning to the paths of virtue. 
This house is situated in Charter Street, is large and 
comsnodious, and is under the caro of a matron and as- 



54 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

sistants. A committee of ladies visit it every week, and 
the pecuniary concerns are under the management ot 
a Board of Directors, chosen annually from the gentle- 
men who are subscribers to the funds of the institution. 
Constitution adopted April 14, 1819; incorporated Janu- 
ary 21, 1823. 

The ladies who manage its internal affairs are assidu- 
ous and persevering ; they are an honour to their sex, 
and the best praise that can be given to them is to refer 
to the institution itself, which all along, as far as it re- 
spects moral influence and the reformation of those who 
have made it a retreat, has been, and still is, eminently 
prosperous. The only regret is that greater means 
have not been put into the hands of those so well fitted 
and disposed to minister to the mind diseased. The in- 
stitution has been remembered on the dying beds of 
some eminent men in this city, and is worthy the atten- 
tion and patronage of the living. 

FEMALE DOMESTIC SOCIETY. 

Some of the most respectable ladies of Boston formed 
themselves into an association, in 1827, for the purpose 
of improving the character of the female domestics. 
Their institution provides for the registry of the names 
of female domestics, whose services may be obtained by 
the members of the association on application therefor ; 
institutes certain rewards for those who live a certain 
period of time in the same family ; and makes some pro- 
vision for such as may be out of employ. The mem- 
bers of the association pay a dollar a year, and are thus 
insured the services of a faithful domestic. Those do- 
mestics who register their names will be pretty sure of 
g;ood places during good behaviour, but in case com- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 55 

plaint against them is made to the managers of the as- 
sociation, their names are struck from the register. 

MASSACHUSETTS MEDICAL SOCIETY. 

This Society was incorporated in 1781, and holds its 
annual meetings in the Athenaeum Gallery building, in 
the rear of the Athenaeum, in Pearl Street, on the first 
Wednesday in June. On the following day there is 
a meeting of the counsellors, for the election of officers 
and the transaction of the financial concerns of the So- 
ciety. A board of censors, for the examination of can- 
didates for the practice of medicine and surgery, meet 
quarterly in the same apai-tments. The library of the 
Society is also kept here for the use of the fellows. 

BOSTON MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 

Hold their monthly conversations on the third Friday 
in each month. All regularly licensed physicians in 
the city may become members of this Association. 

MASSACHUSETTS COLLEGE OF PHARMACY. 

This institution was founded in 1822, by the apothe- 
caries of Boston, to provide the means of a systematic 
education ; to regulate the instruction of apprentices ; 
to promote a spirit of pharmaceutical investigation, and 
to diffuse information among the members of the pro- 
fession ; to discountenance the sale of spurious, adulter- 
ated and inferior articles ; to regulate the business as 
far as practicable and consistent with our social institu- 
tions. 

THE BRITISH CHARITABLE SOCIETY. 

A few Englishmen, mostly strangers to each other, 
but influenced by the same kind affections, the same 



56 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

feelings of compassion for their unfortunate country- 
men in distress, were induced to form tiiis benevolent 
institution, which was commenced November 7, 1816. 
The rising state of this country is and necessarily must 
be such, that it has an inviting aspect to many in the 
eastern world. Emigration to America is the common 
consequence of enterprise in BritaiUj which is contin- 
ually bringing out to these shores multitudes of adven- 
turers, a large portion of whom are mechanics and la- 
bourers ; they come hither with greater or less expecta- 
tions, some succeed beyond their hopes, others have 
become dissatisfied, and disappointment has caused a 
regret that they left their home, and induced a wish to 
return. This floating and vacillating emigration has 
occupied much of the attention of the British Charitable 
Society. To receive them on their arrival, to advise, 
recommend, and admonish them in their proceeding, 
has been the object of the Society. Their charities in 
this way have been much demanded. Failures in en- 
terprise, and consequently poverty, and sometimes sick- 
ness, have introduced many to their notice. 

By the charities of this Society over 1,000 distressed 
British subjects have been relieved, many of whom 
have been raised from the most abject poverty to a state 
of comfort and respectability. There are near 200 mem- 
bers belonging to this institution, which has about $3,500 
in funds. The terms of membership require, that each 
and every member on admission subscribe towards the 
funds $2 ; and any larger sum over and above this he 
feels disposed to contribute, is considered a donation, 
and recorded as such. The first year's subscription is 
to be paid on subscribing ; after which, the annual con- 
tributions of ^2, with such larger sums as may be sub- 
scribed, are to be paid annually or quarterly, in ad- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 57 

vance. Persons subscribing and paying a sum not less 
than ^25, become life subscribers, and are exempted 
from any further assessments, excepting for their pro- 
portion of the incidental expenses of the institution. 
The Trustees receive applications for relief, and direct 
proper inquiry into the circumstances and character of 
the applicant, and, if worthy, grant such relief as may 
be deemed necessary. 

NEW ENGLAND SOCIETY. 

The formation of the JVew England Society for the 
Promotion of Manufactures and the Mechanic Arts 
was commenced in 1825, by citizens of Boston, who 
were desirous to promote American industry, genius 
and talents, wherever found. The first meeting was 
held on the second of November, vv^hen a committee was 
appointed to draft a Constitution and report the same for 
consideration to a meeting which they were instructed 
to call, and did so on the 21st of December, when their 
plan and resolutions were adopted. They obtained an 
act of incorporation, from the government of the state, 
March 3, 1826, by which the Society is authorized to 
hold public exhibitions of the products of the arts — to 
award and grant premiums for new and useful inven- 
tions, and for the best specimens of the skill and in- 
genuity of manufacturers and mechanics. There are 
generally two sales in the year under the direction of 
the Society ; one in the spring and the other in the fall 
of the year. The law incorporating the Society, ex- 
empts all goods sold under its direction at the regular 
semi-annual sales, from the auction duty. The city 
government, by an Ordinance, granted free of expense, 
for several years, the use of the halls over the Faneuil 
Hall Market, lor their sales. The concerns of the Society 
6 



58 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

are managed by a Board, consisting of a President, 10 
Vice-Presidents, a Treasurer, a Secretary, and 25 Di- 
rectors. Their first public sale commenced on the 12th 
of September, 1826, and the whole amount of goods 
sold at the five first sales, was not far from ^2,000,000. 
In addition to the sales the Society had an exhibition, 
in October, 1826, and another in August, 1828. At these 
exhibitions, premiums of medals were offered for the 
best specimens of American manufactures of all kinds ; 
for new inventions in the arts, machinery, &c. There 
were 15 medals awarded at the first, and 20 at the se- 
cond exhibition. 

There is a Standing Committee from this Society, who 
have authority to award premiums for new inventions, 
machinery, and for experiments in chemistry and na- 
tural philosophy tending to the advancement of the arts. 
Their common premium is an elegant silver medal, 
struck from highly finished dies, the workmanship of 
Mr. C. Gobrecht, an eminent artist of Philadelphia. 
The payment of 1,2 annually constitutes a member, and 
those that pay ^25, become members for life. The 
number of members is about two hundred. 

The Society has done much, even at this early period 
of its existence, to advance the interests of mechanics 
and manufacturers, by bringing them together occa- 
sionally to attend their extensive and well-conducted 
sales and exhibitions, which enables every mechanic 
and manufacturer to compare the products of his own 
skill with those of others, and to present the result 
of his labour and study to judges competent to decide on 
their character and usefulness, and by opening to him a 
market for their sale, where the number, as well as 
character and interest of those present, will secure to 
him a fair and liberal reward for his inventions and im- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 69 

provemenls. It must give every friend to improve- 
ment great pleasure to perceive that the doings of this 
Society have created a spirit of emulation, that must 
raise still higher the character of our manufacturers. 

BOSTON mechanics' INSTITUTION. 

Instituted January 12, 1827. Incorporated June 15, 
1827. This association consists of such mechanics and 
others as are friendly to the promotion of science and 
the arts. Its object is the cultivation of useful know- 
ledge, by the aid of lectures and such other means as 
may be found expedient. To place the benefits to be 
thus derived within the reach of all classes in the com- 
munity, it is provided by the constitution that the fee 
for admission shall be only ^2, with an annual assess- 
ment of the same amount. 

The principal direction of the affairs of the Institution 
is confided to a board of Managers, composed of a Pre- 
sident, three Vice-Presidents, Recording Secretary, 
Corresponding Secretary, Treasurer, and fifteen Direc- 
tors, who are chosen annually on the last Monday in 
April. It is required by the constitution that the four 
first officers, and at least three-fourths of the directors, 
shall be, or shall have been, practical mechanics, man- 
ufacturers, artists, or engineers. 

The Society was fortunate in selecting as its first 
President the Hon. Nathaniel Bowditch, whose exer- 
tions have contributed in no small degree to the use- 
fulness and prosperity of the Institution. 

The first course of lectures, which was commenced 
in less than, three weeks from the organization of the 
society, consisted of an introductory by Mr. George B. 
Emerson, four lectures on subjects in natural philoso- 



m PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

phy by Professor Farrar, four on Chemistry by Pro- 
fessor Webster, and one on Friction by Mr. Daniel 
Tread we] I. 

The lectures are delivered %veekly, in the lecture 
room of the Temple. The Institution consists at pre- 
sent of 634 members, and the minor's class of about 240. 

In the collection of apparatus, great care has been 
used to procure instruments of such a size and structure 
as should suit them to be used before a large audience, 
and of such finish of workmanship as should make them 
specimens of the skill of experienced artists. In the 
model of a working steam-engine, already received, 
these two qualities are united in an eminent degree. 
This beautiful machine was made by Bancks, Jr. of 
London. Those who have had an opportunity of exam- 
ining it, have been struck with admiration at the extra- 
ordinary delicacy and perfection of the workmanship, 
and the great accuracy with which all the parts of this 
most complex machine are represented. 

BOSTON DEBATING SOCIETT. 

This Society, composed of gentlemen belonging to 
the variovis trades and professions in the community, 
was organised at a meeting held in January and Feb- 
ruary, 1821. Its principal object is the improvement 
of its members in extemporaneous discussion. The 
government is vested in a President, Vice-President, 
and five Directors, who, with a Secretary, Treasurer, 
and four Monitors, are chosen annually, on the first 
Tuesday evening in February. The meetings of the 
Society are held on Tuesday evenings in Chauncy 
Hall. The number of members is at present about 
Iwo hundred. 



Picture of boston. 6i 



FRANKLIN DEBATING SOCJETY. 

This Society was instituted in May, 1822, The gen- 
eral objects of the association are improvement in ex- 
temporaneous speaking, deUberative discussion, and elo- 
cution in general. Its government is organized in a Pre- 
sident, Vice-President, Directors, Secretary and Trea- 
surer, who are elected annually in November. The 
meetings ot the Society are held at Chauncy Hall, on 
Wednesday evening of each week ; the first meeting in 
each month being devoted to the transaction of inciden- 
tal business, and the others to the discussion of subjects 
of general interest. The questions for debate are se- 
lected by the government and advertised in the public 
papers, previous to the meeting assigned for their dis- 
cussion. In the transaction of business and the discus- 
sion of questions, the Society is governed by strict par- 
liamentary and congressional rules and regulations. 
Members are admitted by a vote of seven-eighths of the 
Society, and entitled to membership, on paying to the 
Treasurer the sum of j|^3 at their admission and an an- 
nual assessment of ^2. The whole number of mem- 
bers at the present time is about one hundred and fifty. 

HANDEL AND HAYDN SOCIETY. 

It had long been the wish of some of the most distin- 
guished professors of Music in Boston, that something 
should be done to improve the style of performing sa- 
cred music, and to introduce into more general practice 
the works of Handel, Haydn, and other eminent com- 
posers. With a view to adopt some plan by which 
these objects might be accomplished, a meeting was 
held at Mr. Graupner's Hall in Franklin Street, on the 
30th of March, 1815. They continued to meet at this 
6* 



«2 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Hall, and at one afterwards provided in Bedford Street, 
under the following government: Thomas S. Webb, 
President; Amasa Winchester, Vice-President; Nathan- 
iel Tucker, Treasurer, and M. S. Parker, Secretary. 
A board of Trustees was also added. The expenses 
were at first defrayed by voluntary loans from the mem- 
bers, who were originally 31 in number, and they at 
first performed selections from the ' Lock Hospital Col- 
lection,' in a manner which augured success to their 
undertaking. The first public performance, which 
was at the Stone Chapel, was on Christmas evening, 
1815, which consisted of selections from Haydn's Crea- 
tion, Handel's Messiah, &,c. Upwards of 1,000 persons 
were present on this occasion. The Society from this 
time, by indefatigable exertions, rose into repute rapidly, 
repeating their public performances often and satis- 
factorily. 

The Society was incorporated by an act of the Legis- 
lature Feb. 9, 1816, and increased to such a degree, 
that it was found necessary to procure a much larger 
Hall. They selected Boylston Hall, over Boylston Mar- 
ket, at which place they have held their meetings since 
Feb. 11, 1817. The act of incorporation allows the So- 
ciety to hold $50,000 in real estate, and the like sum in 
personal property, which is never to be divided among 
the members of the corporation, but descend to their 
successors, subject only to the payment of the just debts 
incurred by the corporation. 

In 1818, Incledon and Phillips, the celebrated vocal- 
ists, assisted their performances several times, and in- 
deed it has ever been the custom of this Society to invite 
such distinguished performers as may gratify the city 
with a display of their talents, to join their public con- 
certs. This association has published three quartos of 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 63 

Sacred Music from the works of Handel, Haydn, Be- 
thoven, Mozart, &c, six editions of Orchestra Church 
Music, a volume of Old Colony Collection of Anthems, 
and other works ; with the profits accruing from these, 
they have been able to purchase a fine toned organ, and 
a valuable collection of music. Their orchestra is com- 
posed of the united musical talent of our city. Their 
stated meetings for the practice of music are held on the 
first Tuesday evening in every month. The terms of 
admission are S^IO, and signing the by-laws, after re- 
ceiving the vote of seven-eighths of the members pre- 
sent, when balloted for. To perpetuate this Society it 
is provided that three-fourths of all the profits, arising 
from the publication and sale of music, constitute a fund 
— two thirds of which are to be reserved and appropriated 
to the building of a Hall for their use, and the remaining 
third to purchase a musical library, or any other ob- 
ject consistent with the original design of the institution. 
The property possessed by this Society is about ^17,000. 
The number of members in 1827 was about 160. 

We question if any other society in our country has 
done so much for the noble and elevated cause it has 
espoused, as has this. Raised to its present high stand- 
ing by its own exertions, it deserves the support of all 
lovers of this ' art divine,' 

PRISON DISCIPLINE SOCIEXy. 

This Society, formed by a number of the most re- 
spectable people of this city, was organized in Boston, 
June 30, 1825. Their object is to promote 'the im- 
provement of Public Prisons.' The officers of this So- 
ciety consist of a President, 15 Vice-Presidents, a Trea- 
surer and Secretary, and a Boaid of IManagers, consist- 
ing of twelve persons, chosen annually. The Secretary 



64 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

has a salary of $1,000, and is required to devote all his 
time to the objects of the Society. Persons subscribing 
and paying $2 annually are admitted members. Those 
paying $30 at one time are members for life ; persons 
paying $10 annually, become Directors, and those that 
pay $100 are Directors for Ufe. The annual meeting 
of this Society is held in Boston, on the Friday succeed- 
ing the General Election. ' 

BOSTON LYCEUM 

Was instituted in 1830. The exercises before this Ly- 
ceum consist of lectures, discussions and declamation. 
Classes on various subjects are formed by members of 
the society in connexion with the Lyceum, free of ex- 
pense. About twenty evenings of each course are ap- 
propriated for lectures, and six for discussions or class 
exhibitions. The public meetings of the Lyceum are 
held at present in Boylston Hall. Each person hold- 
ing a ticket has the privilege, of introducing ladies. Pre- 
miums in medals or books, are awarded on the last 
evening of each course, to the writers of the best 
articles of poetry, and essays connected with popular 
education, &c. 

mechanics' LYCEUM. 

The first meeting in favour of forming this Lyceum 
was called by Mr. Josiah Holbrook, Feb. 5th, 1831. 
The Constitution was adopted Feb. 25. The exercises 
consist of lectures, debates, and declamation. This Ly- 
ceum depends entirely upon its own resources, the ex- 
ercises being conducted by members alone; and thus 
far, notwithstanding its number of members has been 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 65 

small, the improvement of those who havo devoted 
their attention to it, has exceeded the anticipation of 
the projectoi-s. 

VOUN'G men's association FOR THE PROMOTION OF LITEKATURE 
AND SCIENCE 

Was formed in 1831. The first meeting was called by- 
Mr. George W. Light, with the advice of several other 
gentlemen, whose object Avas to form an association for 
the promotion of literature and science, particularly 
among the young men of the community, and for the 
general advancement of knowledge. This plan has 
been followed, and the society is in successful opera- 
tion. The exercises are various, and decided upon at 
previous meetings. The principal are lectures and 
discussions. Original compositions of every descrip- 
tion are permitted to be read and criticised at any re- 
gular meeting. The most important of the transactions 
are made public, through the Essayist and Young 
Men's Magazine. 

BOSTON YOUNG MEn's SOCIETY 

Was formed in 1832. Its objects are moral and intel- 
lectual improvement, and the promotion of acquaint- 
ance between the young men of this city and those 
from other places who take up their residence here. It 
has purchased a library of about 1,000 volumes, and fit- 
ted up part of the building at the corner of Tremont 
and Broomfield Streets for their place of meeting, li- 
brary, &,c. The number of members is about 200, and 
is fast increasing. This association promises to be of 
very extensive benefit to the young men of our com- 
munity. 



66 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



CRITICAL CLUB. 

This is a small association, formed in 1830. Its ob- 
ject is general criticism on the manners and literary- 
efforts of the members, as well as on the manners, cus- 
toms, and literature of the country at large. 

There are a number of other Societies in Boston, wor- 
thy of a more detailed account than the facts furnished 
will enable us to give. Among these are — 

Auxiliary Foreign Mission Society of Boston and 
Vicinity. 

The Massachusetts Charitable Congregational Society. 
Incorporated March 24th, 1786. 

Faustus Association. Instituted August 2, 1805. 

Massachusetts Charitable Society. Founded in Bos- 
ton, September 6, 1762. Incorporated March 15, 
1780. 

Boston Episcopal Charitable Society. Instituted in 
1724. Incorporated February 12, 1784. 

Boston Society for the Religious and Moral Improve- 
ment of Seamen. Instituted May 11, 1812. 

Scot's Charitable Society. Instituted in 1784. In- 
corporated March 16, 1786. 

Boston Female Society for Missionary Purposes. 
Constituted Oct. 9, 1800. 

Charitable Irish Society. Instituted March, 1737. In- 
corporated February 23, 1809. 

The Corban Society. Instituted by females of Boston 
to aid candidates for the gospel ministry, September, 
1811. 

Fragment Society. Incorporated November, 1816. 
Instituted by females of Boston, for the relief of wo- 
men and children in destitute circumstances. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 67 

The Baptist Evangelical Tract Society. 
Female Philanthropic Society. 
American Tract Society in Boston. 
Boston Female Samaritan Society. 
Baptist Missionary Society of Massachvisetts. 
Fatherless and Widow's Society. 
Massachusetts Bible Society. 
Boston Baptist Evangelical Society. 
Boston Female Society for the Promotion of Chris- 
tianity among the Jews. 

American Education Society. 

Massachusetts Peace Society. 

Franklin Typographical Society. 

Washington Society. 

Massachusetts Society of Cincinnati. 

Boston Society for the Suppression of Intemperance. 

Pastoral Association of Massachusetts. 

Massachusetts Sabbath School Union. 

Speculative Society. 

Social Lyceum. 

Massachusetts Lyceum. 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 

STATE HOUSE. 

The corner stone of this edifice was laid July 4th, 
1795, on land formerly owned by Governor Hancock, 
near the top of Beacon Hill. This building is of an ob- 
long form, 173 feet front and 61 deep. It consists 
of a baseme'nt story 20 feet high, and a princi- 
pal story 30 feet. This, in the centre of the front, is 
covered with an attic 60 feet wide, 20 feet high, which 



6S PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

is covered with a pediment. Immediately above thits 
rises a dome, 52 feet diameter and 35 high ; the whole 
terminates with an elegant circular lantern 25 feet high, 
supporting a gilded pine cone. The basement story is 
finished plain on the wings with square windows. The 
centre is 94 feet in length, and formed of arches which 
project 14 feet; they form a covered walk below, and 
support a colonnade of Corinthian columns of the same 
extent above. The outside walls are of large patent 
bricks, with white marble fascias, imposts and keystones. 
The body of the building is of a Portland stone colour; 
the dome of a bronze. The lower story is divided into 
a large hall or public walk in the centre, 50 feet square 
and 20 high, supported by Doric columns. In the 
centre and on the north side of this story is placed the 
highly finished Statue of Washington, by Chantry, 
in a neat Temple erected for the purpose. Two en- 
tries open at each end, 16 feet wide, with two flights 
of stairs in each ; on both sides of which are offices for 
the Treasurer, Secretary, Adjutant and Quarter Master 
Genera], and the Land Othce. The rooms above are, 
the Representatives' room, in the centre, 55 feet square, 
the corners formed into niches for fire places ; this room 
is finished with Doric columns on two sides, at 12 feet 
from the floor, forming galleries ; the Doric entabla- 
ture surrounds the whole ; from this spring four flat 
arches on the side, which being united by a circular 
cornice above, form in the angles four large pendants to 
a bold and well proper fioned dome. The pendants are 
ornamented with emblems of Commerce, Agriculture, 
Peace and War. The dome is finished in compartments 
of stucco in a style of simple elegance. The centre of 
the dome is fifty feet from the floor. The Speaker's 
chair is placed on the north side, and the permanent 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 69 

seats, in a semicircular form, are so arranged as to ac- 
commodate about 350 members on the floor, leaving in 
their rear on the south side of the room an area which 
will accommodate a number of spectators without in- 
convenience to the members of the House. There are 
two galleries in this room, one for the acconunodation 
of the members and another for spectators. 

North of the centre room is the Senate chamber, 55 
feet long, 33 wide, and 30 high, highly finished in the 
Ionic order; two screens of columns support with 
their entablature a rich and elegant arched ceiling. 
This room is also ornamented with Ionic pilasters, and 
with the arms of the State, and of the United States, 
placed in opposite panels. 

The council cham.ber is on the opposite quarter of 
the building ; it is 27 feet square, and 20 high, with a flat 
ceiling ; the walls are finished with Corinthian pilas- 
ters, and panels of stucco ; these panels are enriched 
with the state arms, with emblems of executive power, 
the scale and sword of justice, and the insignia of arts 
and freedom, the Caduceus and cap of Liberty ; the 
whole decorated with wreaths of oak and laurel. Be- 
sides these principal rooms, there are about twenty 
smaller, plainly finished for the use of committees. The 
whole cost of the building amounted to $133,333,33. It 
was first occupied by the Legislature on the 11th of 
January, 1798. 

The foundation of this edifice is 110 feet above the 
level of the harbour, and its elevation and size make it a 
very conspicuous object. Two flights of stairs lead to 
the top of the outer dome, 170 steps from the founda- 
tion. The view from this dome, which is 230 feet above 
the level of the sea, affords one of the most interesting 
and beautiful spectacles. The eye embraces at once 
7 



70 PICTURE OF BOSTOiN. 

every avenue and every public building in the city, 
and overlooks the towns adjacent, all speckled with 
white houses and country seats, amidst groves and luxu- 
riant fields. At our feet, on the right, we see the man- 
sion house of Hancock, (a venerable stone building of 
near ninety years standing,) and in front is spread 
the Common, like a splendid carpet of green, bounded 
on all sides by the Malls, closely shaded by trees of va- 
lious growth, over which the great elm in the middle 
of the common, (near to an old redoubt, and beside an 
artificial pond,) seems to command the whole, with the 
majestic waving of his huge branches, the growth of 
more than a century. East, lies in full view, the sight 
unobstructed in its farthest reach, the ocean and the 
harbour, bespangled with islands, almost as numerous, 
and said to be equally as charming as those which beau- 
tify the bay of Naples ; all together combining to make 
this view one of the most delightful panoramas that the 
world affords. Turning to the north, you have a fine 
view of Charlestown, the Navy Yard, Bunker Hill and 
the Monument, and to the west you have Cambridge 
with the Harvard College buildings, 

FANEUIL HALL. 

The history of Faneuil Hall, which has been very 
properly styled the ' cradle of American liberty,' 
is intimately connected with that of our country. The 
original building, commenced in 1740, and finished on 
the 10th of September, 1742, was the noble gift of 
Peter Faneuil, Esq. to the town of Boston, for a town 
hall and market-place. The inside wood work and roof 
of this building was destroyed by fire on the 13th of 
January, 1761. It was again repaired in 1763, with 
some slight alteration in the work, but the size of the 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 71 

building remained the same, two stories high and 100 
feet by 40. The enlargement, by which it was extend- 
ed in width to 80 feet, and a third story added, was pro- 
posed by the selectmen in May, 1805, and completed 
in the course of the year. The building has a cupola, 
from which there is a fine view of the harbour. The 
great hall is 76 feet square, and 28 feet high, with gal- 
leries of three sides upon doric columns ; the ceiling is 
supported by two ranges of Ionic columns ; the walls 
enriched with pilasters and the windows with archi- 
traves, &,c. Platforms under and in the galleries rise 
amphitheatrically to accommodate spectators, and from 
trials already made on various occasions of public inter- 
est, it appears favourable for sight and sound. 

The west end is decorated by an original full 
length painting of Washington, by Stuart, presented 
by Samuel Parkman, Esq. and another painting of the 
same size, by Col. Henry Sargent, representing Peter 
Faneuil, Esq. in full length, copied from an original of 
smaller size. Between these paintings is placed a mar- 
ble bust of John Adams. 

Above the great hall is another 78 feet long and 30 wide, 
devoted to the exercise of the different military corps 
of the city, with a number of apartments on each side 
for depositing the arms and military equipments, where 
those of the several Independent Companies are ar- 
ranged and kept in perfect order. The building also 
contains convenient offices for the Overseers of the 
Poor, Assessors, &c. 

During the summer of 1827, the city government 
thoroughly repaired the building, and divided the lower 
story, which had formerly been used for a market, into 
eight elegant and convenient stores, which give to the 
dty upwards of $4,600 per annum. The building 



72 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Ava-5 at the same time painted a light Portland stone 
colour. 

In the annals of the American continent, there is no 
one place more distinguished for powerful eloquence, 
than Faneuil Hall. The flame which roused a depress- 
ed people from want and degradation, arose from the al- 
tar of Liberty in Faneuil Hall ; the language which 
made a monarch tremble upon his throne for the safety 
of his colonies, and which inspired New England with 
confidence in a cause, both arduous and bold, unpre- 
pared and unassisted, against a royal bulwark of here- 
ditary authority, had its origin in Faneuil Hall. Those 
maxims of political truth which have extended an influ- 
ence over the habitable globe, and have given rise to 
new republics, where despotism once held a court, 
glutted with the blood that would be free, were first 
promulgated in Faneuil Hall. Tyranny, with all its 
concomitant evils, was first exposed, and the great ma- 
chine of human v/isdom, which was to emoncipate man 
from the rapacious jaws of a British Lion, was put in 
active operation in Faneuil Hall. The story of our 
country's future greatness, her power, her learning, 
her magnitude, her final independence, w^as told pro- 
phetically in the same immortal forum. 

FANEUIL HALL MABKET. 

Faneuil Hall Market is situated at the east end of 
Faneuil Hall, between two streets called North and 
South Market Streets, having two streets passing at 
right angles at the east and west fronts, the one being 
76 feet, and the other at the east end, 65 feet wide. 
North Market Street is 65 feet wide, the South 102 feet, 
oach street having a range of stores four stories high 



nCTUllE OF BOSTON. 73 

with gi-auite fronts ; the range of stores on the north 
side 520 feet, and 55 feet deep ; on the south 530 feet, 
and 65 feet deep ; (an arched avenue in centre of each 
range five feet wide, communicating with the adjoining 
streets ;) the facade of which is composed of piers, hntel, 
and arched windows on the second story. The roofs 
are slated, and the cellars water proof. The height and 
form of the stores were regulated by the conditions of 
sale. The purchaser was required to erect, within a 
limited time, a brick store with hammered stone front, 
(granite piers,) in strict conformity with a plan drawn 
by Mr. Alexander Parris. 

The first operation for locating and building this spa- 
cious and superb Market House, commenced on the 
20th of August, 1824, by staking out the ground for the 
.same, and for the North Market Street ; the old build- 
ings standing on the premises having been pveviously 
purchased by the city, but not removed. 

Shortly after the razing of these buildings, the filling 
up of the docks, and other work, necessary for dealing 
Che wide area, and preparing for laying the corner stone 
of the structure, were simultaneously entered upon, and 
carried through, to the raising of the splendid dome, 
without the intervention, Ave believe, of a single acci- 
dent or occurrence affecting human life. 

The corner stone of this building was laid with much 
ceremony. The plate deposited beneath it bears the 
names of the Mayor, Aldermen and Common Council, 
Building Committee and Principal Architect, besides 
the fo]lov.ing inscription: 'Faneuil Hall Market, 
established. by the City of Boston. This stone was laid 
April 27, Anno Domini Mdcccxxv, in the forty-ninth 
year of American Independence and in the third of the 
iiicorporation of the city. John Quincy Adams, Presi- 
7^^ 



74 PICTURE OF BOSTOiN. 

dent of the United States. Marcus Morton, Lt. Gov- 
ernor and Commander in Chief of the Commonwealth 
of Massachusetts. The population of the city estimat- 
ted at 50,000; that of the United States 11,000,000.' 

In length it is 535 feet 9 inches, in width 50 feet, 
wholly built of granite, having a centre building 74j by 
55 feet, projecting 2k feet in the north and south fronts. 
From the centre buildings are wings on each side, 173 
by 50 feet ; the wing continues from a projection of 6 
inches, 46 feet 3 inches, and 51 feet in v/idth, on each 
facade of which are 5 antaes, projecting 6 inches, finish- 
ing with a portico at each end of the building, project- 
ing 11 feet 7h inches. The porticos consist of 4 columns, 
3j feet diameter at base, and 2 feet 10 inches at neck, 
each shaft in one piece, 20 feet 9 inches long, with a 
capital of the Grecian Doric. The columns support a 
pediment, the tympanum of which has a circular win- 
dov/ for ventilation. The wings are of two stories, the 
lower one 14 feet, the upper 14i- feet, the lower win- 
dows have circular heads. The huilding is finished with 
a Grecian cornice 16 inches in depth, and 21 inches 
projection, w'orked in granite. The roof is slated, and 
gutters copper. The height of the wings from the side- 
walk to the top of the cornice is 31 feet. 

The facade of the centre building, up to the under side 
of the second story windows, is composed of five recesses 
of piers and arches of grooved ashlar, on the top of which 
are again formed recesses by antaes, supporting a frieze 
and cornice, similar to the wing building ; in each re- 
cess is a circular headed window, the centre a Venetian ; 
on the top of the cornice is a blocking course, and an 
octagon attic, 6 feet high, with two elliptical sawtells, 
surmounted by a dome covered with copper, and crown- 
ed by a lantern light. At each angle on top of the cen- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 75 

tre building is a pedestal, in which are placed the ne- 
cessary flues. 

The whole edifice is supported by a base of Quincy 
blue granite, 2 feet 10 inches high, with arched win- 
dows and doors, communicating with the cellars. 

The building is approached by 6 steps of easy ascent ; 
each wing has six doors. The centre building in the 
north and south front, a pair of folding doors enter a 
passage 10 feet v/ide, paved with brick, laid on ground 
arches ; the wings have also a passage way of smaller 
dimensions to correspond. 

The principal entrances are from the east and west 
porticos, which communicate with the corridor, 512 feet 
long, 12 feet wide, with entablatures, finished with a 
cove ceiling. The interior is divided into 128 stalls, 
and occupied as follows, viz : 14 for mutton, lamb, veal 
and poultry; 2 for poultry and venison; 19 for pork, 
lamb, butter and poultry; 43 for beef; 4 for butter and 
cheese ; 19 for vegetables, and 20 lor fish. 

On the south front are four doorways opening to stair- 
cases, leading to the second story, in the centre of which 
is a hall, 70 by 50 feet, having a dome, springing from 
four segmental arches, ornamented with panels and 
rosetts, in the crown of which is an elliptical opening, 
14 by 12 feet, througli which is seen the skylight and 
part of the outer dome. The whole height of the hall 
to the opening, or eye of the dome, is 46 feet. Each 
wing is divided into two halls by a brick partition, the 
smaller 44 by 47, the larger 173 by 47. This is called 
Quincy Hall, in honour of Josiah Quincy. 

The whole of the Market and the improvements on 
North and South Market Streets, were completed with- 
in the space of 26 months, and occupy about 1 acre, 2 
perches, 24 rods, the greater part of which has been 



76 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

reclaimed from the sea, by filling in earth at different 
periods. The cellar story is occupied for storage of pro- 
visions, and made perfectly water proof. 

The Hon. Josiah Quincy, who was Mayor of the city, 
is entitled to much credit for his exertions in carrying this 
bold and noble plan into execution. It is in fact one of 
the principal attractions of the city to strangers. 

CITY HALL. 

The first building for governmental business was erect- 
ed at the head of what was then called King Street, 
about 1658, and was built of wood. It has been twice 
burnt. The last time it was destroyed was in 17-47, 
and it was repaired in the following year nearly in its 
present form. The building is in length 110, in breadth 
38 feet, three stories high, finished according to the 
Tuscan, Doric and Ionic orders. Till recently it was 
called the Old State House. 

After the Revolution, it was the place of meeting 
for the General Court, till after the completion of the 
State House, near Beacon Hill. From about that time, 
to the year 1830, (thirty years,) the lower floor and 
cellar were used by various tradesmen. Insurance Offi- 
ces, &c. On the 17th Sept. 1830, having been thoroughly 
repaired, it was, by an ordinance of the City Govern- 
ment, called the City Hall, — by which name it has 
since been designated. It stands at the head of State 
Street, and on the line of Washington Street, the Broad- 
way of the metropolis of Massachusetts, having a tower 
overlooking most of the city and harbour, rising from 
the centre of the roof. The fronts on Washington and 
State Streets have each a portico. Being in the very 
focus of business, and nearly in the centre of the city, 
the use to which this venerable pile is now devoted 
appears to give universal salisfaction. 




D-IjJJ r^jS:Vr, Jiy'if; 



J'-iiJ^j-ji^'X/jii ;ii^_L,:L 







FUTURE OF BOSTON. 77 

On the first floor are three large rooms ; that facing 
Washington Street is the Post-Office. At the other ex- 
tremity, looking down State Street, is the Marine News 
Room, one of the best conducted establishments, for the 
accommodation of merchants, in the United States. The 
middle room, a lofty apartment, supported by pillars, is 
the exchange, and common tlioroughfare to the public 
offices. 

From this central room or Merchants' Exchange, is a 
flight of winding stairs, leading to a suit of apartments, 
in the second story. Directly over the Post-Office is the 
Hall of the Common Council, in which they ordinarily 
meet on pubhc business. In the opposite end of the 
building is the Hall of the Mayor and Aldermen. In 
this room the chief Magistrate of the city, together 
with the City Clerk, remain through the day, in the 
discharge of their ordinary duties. The Board of Al- 
dermen hold their meetings, also, on Monday evenings. 
Around the circular area of the stairs are a series of 
Offices, viz. the Auditor's, Treasurer's, Assistant City 
Clerk's, Clerk of Common Council, and the Health 
Office, which latter accommodates the City Marshal, 
Superintendent of Burial Grounds, Physician of the 
Port, Captain of the Watch, Superintendent of Lamps, 
and the Commissioner of Streets. 

Another flight of stairs leads to the 3d story, in vvhich is 
the Office of the Chief Engineer of the Fire Department, 
City Land Commissioner, Messenger, a Committe Room, 
Post-Master's private apartment, and a large Hall, in 
which is a recently organized public Vaccine Institution, 
for the gratuitous innoculation of the poor. 

The whole is lighted with gas, as well as the lamps at 
the four corners of the building. Besides being highly 
ornamental to the city, the concentration of so many 



78 PIC'l'URE OF BOSTON. 

iiiiportimt oflices under one root, renders the City Hall 
an object of peculiar interest. 

On the 21st of November, 1832, about five o'clock in 
the morninof, this ancient building, the scene of so many 
interesting events, again took fire from an opposite build- 
ing, under the stool of one of the Lutheran windows, 
which scon communicated with the under side of the 
]-oof, and had it not been for the uncommon exertions 
of the fire department, it must have been completely 
prostrated in a little time. As it was, however, the 
damages were easily repaired. The appropriations of 
the Council for the purpose was 3500. No papers of 
importance were lost, and the curious records of the city, 
from its first settlement, for a third time, were safely 
rescued from a devouring element. 

In Hales's Survey of Boston and Vicinity, the measures 
of distances are reckoned from this building. 

TOPLIFf's REAniNG ROOM. 

This establishment is supported by subscribers, con- 
sisting chiefly of the first merchants in the place. The 
annual subscription is $10, with the right of introducing 
a friend, from any place not within 6 miles of the city. 
The room is furnished with all the principal papers in 
the United States, as well as foreign papers, prices cur- 
rent, &c. Also seven books — the 1st is for the general 
record of news, on which is recorded daily all informa- 
tion of a general nature, and such as is particularly in- 
teresting to the merchants of the place, as may be re- 
ceived from correspondents, by land or watei", and by 
arrivals at the port ; the 2d is for the record of all arri- 
vals from foreign parts or places, with the cargoes par- 
ticularly specified to each consignee ; the 3d for the 
record of all arrivals fi-om other ports in the United 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 79 

States similarly noted as the 2d ; the 4th for the reconl 
of all vessels cleared for foreign ports, time of sailing, 
&c. ; the 5th for the record of all vessels cleared for 
other ports in the United States ; the 6th for the record 
of all arrivals and clearances, from or for foreign ports, 
in all ports of the United States, except Boston ; and the 
7th for the record of the names of all gentlemen intro- 
duced by the subscribers, the places whence they came, 
and the name of the subscriber introducing them. In 
the room are also several of the most important maps, 
necessary or useful to the ship-owner or merchant, 
and a good clock. Attached to this establishment is a 
boat with two men, ready at all times for the Superin- 
tendent, who generally boards all vessels arriving in the 
port, and all such information as he may obtain from 
them is recorded on the several books above mentioned, 
as soon as possible, for the benefit of the subscribers and 
all those who have the privilege of frequenting the 
Reading room. It is kept in the east end of the City 
Hall. 

THK POST OFFICE 

Is situated in the west end of the City Hall, fronting 
Washington Street, Nathaniel Greene, Esq. Post Mas- 
ter. This office stands the third in the Union in point 
of emolument, and is inferior to none in the system of 
management. There are 10 clerks employed in tiie 
Office, one penny-post for distributing letters through 
the city, and one messenger and poster. The excel- 
lent arrangement for the delivery of letters through the 
medium of the boxes renders it unnecessary to employ 
more than one penny-post. 

There are made up weekly for departure about 2,000 
mails. The great southern mail closes at 9 p. m. by 



80 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

the office clock, and arrives about 10 p. m. during the 
warm seasons, and about midnight during the winter. 
The eastern mail closes at 8 p. m. and arrives about 9 
p. ra. 

There is a steam boat mail irom New York every 
afternoon via Providence, excepting Monday, which 
anticipates the great southern mail. 

The office is opened from the 1st of April to the 1st 
of October at 7 o'clock a. m. and from 1st of October to 
1st of April at 8 o'clock p. m. and is closed the year 
round at 8 p. m. with the exception of Sundays, when 
it is opened for half an hour from 9 a. m. and 7 p. m. 
To ensure immediate forwarding of letters they should 
be deposited at least 10 or 15 minutes previous to the 
closing of the mail. 

BOYLSTON MARKET AND BOYLSTON' HALL. 

This building, situated at the corner of Washington 
and Boylston Streets, was so named in honour of Ward 
Nicholas Boylston, Esq. The proprietors were incor- 
porated Feb. 27, 1809, and the foundation of the build- 
ing was commenced in the April following;. The land 
belonging to the corpoi-ation was formerly owned by 
Samuel Welles, Esq. of whose heirs it was purchased 
by IMr. Jos. C. Dyer, and by hirn conveyed to the pre- 
sent proprietors for $20,560. The cost of the building 
was about $39,000, besides the cupola, which was built 
by subscription. The clock was a donation of Mr. Boyl- 
ston. It was opened in 1810. It is in length 120 feet, 
and in width 50, of three stories, with a deep cellar. 
On the first floor are 12 stalls for the sale of provisions. 
The second is separated by an avenue running length- 
wise, on the sides of which are four spacious rooms. 
The 3d story forms one of the most spacious halls in Bos- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 81 

ton, and is denominated Boylston Hall. This is a noble 
apartment, 100 feet long by 48 feet in breadth, with an 
arched ceiling 24 feet high. It is rented by the Han- 
del and Haydn Society, and is commodiously fitted up 
for their accommodation. At the west end an orches- 
tra is constructed capable of containing 150 vocal and 
instrumental performers. A handsome organ, built by 
Mr. Appleton of this city, stands at the extreme westerly 
end, with its top nearly touching the roof of the hall. 
The seats in the orchestra are built in a semi-circular 
form, and in the centre of the arc stands the desk of the 
president. The orchestra occupies about one fourth 
part of the floor ; the remainder of which is furnished 
with settees, for the audience, and will accommodate 
about SOO persons. The entrance is by three doors at 
the east end, and immediately over these is a gallery 
sufficiently spacious to accommodate two hundred. 

The Hall is occasionally used for lectures, concerts, 
declamations, &c. Previous to building the church in 
Piedmont street, the Rev. James Sabine preached here 
on Sundays to his little flock, which followed him from 
the church in Essex street. 

merchants' hall market. 

The location of this building is at the corner of Con- 
gress and Water Streets ; it is a large plain building of 
brick, four stories in height. The lower floor is occu- 
pied as a market, and the upper stories for printing offi- 
ces, and various other purposes. 

parkman's market. 

This market is a large brick building at the corner of 
Grove and Cambridge Streets, distinguished by a cupola. 
It wag erected by the late Samuel Parkman, Esq. for 

8 



82 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

the purpose of a market to accommodate the population 
in that neighborhood. It was built in the fall of 
1810. 

THE CITY MARKET 

Is an extensive brick building, three stories high, situa^ 
ted at the end of Brattle street, next to Dock square.. 
The lower story and cellars are appropriated to the 
sale of provisions. This building was erected by pri- 
vate citizens in the year 1819 : the town had opposed 
their wish to be incoi-porated. The city has since re- 
fused to accept the building as a donation, and a furni- 
ture warehouse is now kept in the south front of the 
Market House ; the room under the lower floor is still 
occupied as a market. 

COURT HOUSE, JAIL AND HOUSE OF CORRECTION. 

The County Jail in Leverett Street, and the House of 
Correction connected with it, and the Municipal Court 
House, are three separate edifices, all of which are 
handsome stone buildings. Perhaps there is not a pris- 
on in the world made more secure. The walls and 
floors are composed of large blocks of hewn stone, which 
are firmly bound together with iron ; and between the 
courses, loose cannon balls are placed in cavities made 
half in the upper, and half in the lower blocks, as a fur- 
ther security. Several years elapsed after these were 
commenced, before they were finished and occupied, 
which was in 1822. 

Before leaving this subject it may be proper to say 
something that will convey an idea of the internal econ- 
omy and regulations of these abodes of wretchedness. 
The inmates of the House of Correction are generally 
eent there by the Police Court, though many are order- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 83 

ed there by the Municipal Court. A great proportion 
of this class of prisoners are confirmed drunkards, — or 
notorious for their disorderly and immoral lives. The 
women, from very young girls to those of an advanced 
age, who are sometimes collected there, are mostly em- 
ployed in making men's clothing, excepting one day in 
the week, which is set apart for washing. They are 
kept orderly, under the care of experienced managers 
of such people, and their work is laid out and superin- 
tended by females of good character. The men, con- 
fined in the House of Correction, are generally employ- 
ed in breaking stone, suitable for repairing and McAd- 
amizing the streets. They work with a ball and chain, 
generally, if notoriously bad, to prevent escape. In 
cold or rainy weather, they pick oakum in the mid- 
dle story of the Jail. These prisoners are under the 
immediate charge of a careful man, whose humanity 
towards these unhappy creatures is greatly to be prais- 
ed. The debtors, in close prison, occupy the rooms in 
the third story of the Jail, where they are accessible by 
their friends, at all hours of the day, by steps leading to 
a balustrade under the windows. Prisoners who are 
waiting trial, as well as those who have been condemn- 
ed, are principally lodged on the lower floor of the Jail. 
The food of the prisoners consists, principally of fresh 
beef, flour bread, and a kind of broth, technically called 
skilly, made by thickening the liquor in which the 
meat has been boiled, with Indian meal. In case of 
sickness, however, a diet is directed by the physician, 
according to the wants and necessities of the individual. 
The aged and infirm, as well as those who are debili- 
tated by intemperance or disease, are allowed tea, rice, 
broths, &c. daily, besides other comforts, which it were 
unnecessary to particularize. A physician whose sal- 



84 PICTURE OF BOSTOxN. 

ary is fixed by the board of accounts, at ^200 per an- 
num, visits the prison daily and prescribes according to 
his best skill and judgment. The apothecary room, 
though small, has a well assorted case of medicines. 
In this room a diet book is regularly made out, for the 
sick of the day. The directors also hold their meetings 
in the same room, on the afternoon of each Monday. 
Religious services are held in one or both prisons, every 
Sabbath, by pious philanthropic divines. The immedi- 
ate responsibility of the whole devolves on the Jailor, 
Mr. Badlam, whose character, as a discreet and humane 
man, and as a superintendent over this necessary, but 
gloomy reservoir of misery, has long been acknowledg- 
ed by the community. 

STONE COURT HOUSE COURT SQUARE. 

This building was erected in 1810, the materials of 
which are of white granite, with a stone or brick floor 
for the tirst story. It is 140 feet long, consists of an 
Octagon centre, 55 feet wide, two stories, two wings of 
three stories, 26 by 40 feet, connected by the entrance 
and passages to the centre; contains two large halls or 
court rooms in the centre, one smaller in one wing. Of- 
fices of Probate, Register of Deeds, Clerks of Supreme 
and Common Pleas Courts, Rooms for Judges and Law 
Library, and rooms for Grand and Petit Juries. The 
board of Aldermen and Common Council formerly held 
their sessions in this building. The cost of the building 
to the county was $92,817 16. In Dr. Snow's History 
of Boston, it is called Johnson Hall. 

THE OLD COURT HOUSE. 

On the south side of Court Street, was a handsome 
building of brick, three stories high, and has on the 
roof an octagon cupola. On the lower floor are the of- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 85 

fices of the United States District Marshall, and several 
private offices. In the second story, the floor of which 
is supported by pillars of the Tuscan order, are held the 
Circuit and District Courts of the U. S. for the Massachu- 
setts District, and the office of the District clerk. In the 
the third story are convenient rooms for jurors, &c. This 
building, before the erection of the Court House, in 
Court Square, was used by all the courts of law held in 
the county. 

THE CUSTOM HOUSE 

Stands on the north side of Custom House Street, near 
the head of Central wharf. It is 60 feet square and 
two stories in height exclusive of the basement, which 
is divided by brick walls and brick arches supporting 
the different passages above. The lower part of the 
front is built of stone and the upper part of brick, with 
a colonnade 60 feet long and 10 feet wide, supported by 
10 stone columns of the doric order, 14 feet in length. 
The floor is paved with stone, and a broad flight of stone 
steps with iron railings, leads to the several offices. It 
is finished with a stone frieze and cornice, and the win- 
dows ornamented with marble dressings. The front is 
crowned by a pediment, on the top of which is a spread 
eagle. The basement and first story is calculated for 
the storing of goods, and contains a number of compart- 
ments occupied by the house-keeper, and some of the 
under officers. The upper story contains 6 rooms 20 
feet high, in which the business of the office is tran- 
sacted. The building is remarkably well contrived for 
the convenience of business, and exhibits a chaste and 
elegant specimen of architecture. It was built in 1810, 
and first occupied on the 29th of December. It cost 
about $30,000. 



96 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



UNITED STATES BRANCH BANK. 

The capital stock of this Bank, employed in Boston is 
^1,500,000. This Banking house is situated in State 
street, at the head of Wilson's lane, and constitutes a chief 
ornament of our Exchange. The first outline of a plan for 
this building was made for the situation which is occu- 
pied by the Old State House, and was intended to be an 
imitation of the purest example of the Grecian Dorick 
order with two porticos ; but the scite, which was finally 
obtained, required a different arrangement. One of 
the porticos was dispensed with, and Antae at the an- 
gles introduced, according to the primitive form of the 
Grecian Temple. The shafts of the columns are frus- 
tums of cones, the sides being right lines, which, being 
the most severe and simple form, seemed the best 
adapted to the occasion. The corner stone of this edi- 
fice was laid on Monday, July 5, 1824. Mr Solomon 
Willard was the designer and architect. The building 
is about 44 feet in front and 96 feet deep. The portico 
is an imitation from the primitive form of the Grecian 
Temple, with little variation, excepting what was neces- 
sary in order to adapt it to the location, and to the re- 
fractory material (Chelmsford granite) of which it was 
to be built. The columns are of the Grecian Dorick, 
four feet in diameter, and twentylfour feet high, the shaft 
being a single piece. 

In the front part of the building, on the first floor, 
there is an entry, and two rooms for the President and 
Cashier ; and in the second story over them, a large 
room for the use of the Directors. The centre of the 
building is occupied for the Banking room, which is a 
rotunda, 36 feet in diameter, and 44 feet high to the top 
of the curb stone = The rear of the building contains 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 87 

the vaults, which open into the Banking room, and a 
number of other apartments, which are to serve for the 
various purposes of the institution. 

There are several other Banking houses in Boston, 
the elegance of which would be likely to attract the 
notice of the stranger. Such are the State Bank, and 
the City Bank, on the south side of State Street, and 
Washington Bank, a small but neat granite edifice, 
with columns in front, near Boylston Market. 

CONCERT HALL 

Is a large, handsome building at the head of Hanover 
Street. It was erected in the year 1756, by Mr Steph- 
en Deblois a musician, for the purpose of concerts, 
dancing, and other entertainments. The building has 
since been enlarged, and improved at a great expense 
by Mr. Amory, the proprietor. The front Hall is about 
60 feet by 30, in the second story, and is justly admired 
for its correct proportions and the richness of its archi- 
tecture. It is highly finished in the Corinthian style, 
with an orchestra, and the walls are ornamented with 
superb mirrors. In the rear is another hall on the 
same story finished in a plainer style, and well calcula^ 
ted for public entertainments, and large parties. 

MASONIC TEMPLE. 

This building is situated in Tremont Street, on part 
of the land that was formerly Washington Gardens. 
The land was purchased of the Hon. William Sullivan, 
and the corner stone laid Oct. 14, 1830, with appropri- 
ate Masonic ceremonies, by the Grand Lodge of Massa- 
chusetts. ' This Temple was dedicated May 30, 1832. 

The location of this building is regarded as the most 
proper that could be selected, for the purpose for which 



88 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

it is intended. It is 60 feet wide, and 80 1-2 feet long ; 
and fronts westwardly on Tremont Street. Its south 
boundary is Temple Place, an avenue 40 feet wide, 
recently built up with handsome mansion houses. On 
the north at 10 feet distance is the elegant edifice, St. 
Paul's church, and on the east, in the rear, is a six feet 
passage way, for the accommodation of the tenants. 
The walls are 52 feet high, of stone, covered with a 
slated roof, 24 feet high, containing 16 windows to light 
the attic story. The gutters are of cast iron, and the 
water trunks are of copper. The basement is of fine 
hammered granite, 12 feet high, with a belt of the 
same. The towers at the corners next Tremont Street, 
are 16 feet square, surmounted with granite battlements, 
and pinnacles rising 95 feet from the ground. The 
door and window frames are of fine hammered granite, 
and the main walls from the basement to the roof are of 
rubble granite, disposed in courses, in such a manner, 
as to present a finished appearance to the eye. The 
cellar 55 by 75 feet in the clear, and 8 feet deep, is in a 
gravel bottom perfectly dry, with sufficient light on two 
sides, to render it an excellent place for many kinds of 
business. The basement story is divided into three 
apartments. The first, which is the chapel, 55 by 40 
feet, and about 15 feet high, with a gallery on the long 
side, is capable of seating 600 persons. The second 
and third, are two school rooms, one 16 by 14 feet, 
and the other 24 by 40, and 10 feet high. 

In the second story is a spacious lecture room 
65 by 55 feet, and 19 feet high, with circular seats upon 
a spherical floor, and lighted by eight windows ; capable 
of seating one thousand persons. From 12 to 20 dol- 
lars rent per day, is paid for the use of this hall, for 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 89 

about 100 days in the year. Over the vestibule, are 
two lobbies, or school rooms. 

In the third story are, 1st, a spacious hall 55 by 39 feet, 
and 16 feet high, well lighted, and capable of seating 
400 persons ; it is now occupied by Mr. Abbott for a 
school room; 2d. a front hall 30 by 32 feet, and 16 
feet high, well hghted, and capable of seating 200 per- 
sons, and is rented to Miss Frost, also for a school room. 
There are three lobbies attached to the halls of this 
floor which are for the accommodation of the tenants. 

In the attic story are, 1st. Masons Hall 46 by 26 feet, 
and 12 feet high, well lighted by 6 windows in the roof, 
and capable of seating 200 persons. Attached to this 
are thirteen lobbies for the accommodation of the re- 
spective lodges; 2d. a drawing-room 24 by 15 feet, and 
8 feet high, sufficiently commodious to accommodate all 
the visitors of the lodges, during their sessions, and 
over this last, is a room for the purpose of storing their 
furniture, &c. Masons Hall, with the other accommoda- 
tions in this story, are appropriated to Masonic purposes. 

From the street to all the stories, are two flights of 
winding stairs in the towers, sufficiently spacious to 
admit a free entrance and departure of all persons from 
the difterent rooms. All the halls, and rooms, are pro- 
vided with stove aparatus, for warming them in the 
winter season, and are lighted with gas. The whole 
cost, including the land, amounts to about ^50,000. 

JULIEK HALL. 

This is a large and convenient edifice situated on the 
corner of Congress and Milk Streets, erected in 1825 by 
Dr. Edward H. Robbins,- and received the name of 
Julien Hall, ia consequence of its being built on the 



90 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

land where formerly stood the much noted Julien's 
Restorator. There are two halls in this building, 55 
by 44 feet square ; the principal one is 15 feet high, and 
receives light through the cupola in the centre. These 
are rented for various purposes, such as public exhibi- 
tions, the holding of meetings, &c. The society of 
Free Enquirers hold their stated meetings here, for lec- 
tures, and for their dancing assemblies. 

CORINTHIAN HALL. 

This Hall was built by Mr, J. L. Cunningham, who 
occupies the lirst floor of the building for his extensive 
Auction Rooms. It is located on the corner of Milk and 
Federal Streets near JuUen Hall, and has a small cu- 
pola which adds to the beauty of the building. The 
Hall, which was finished for an Assembly Room, has 
become a fashionable place for the meeting of Cotillion 
Parties. It was first opened by Mons. Lebasse, for his 
Dancing Assembly, on the 4th of October, 1826. 

PANTHEON HALL. 

This is a very neat and convenient hall, for holding 
various Assemblies, It is situated in Washington 
Street, on the corner of Boylston Square. 

WASHINGTON HALL 

Is another hall, fitted for similar purposes. This is 
also in Washington Street, and its location is nearly 
opposite Franklin Street. 

CHAUNCY HALL IN CHAUNCy PLACE, 

Was built in 1828, by Mr. G, F. Thayer for many 
years a teacher of a private seminary in this city, and 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 91 

is devoted principally to the use of his school. It takes 
its name from Dr. Charles Chauncy, a man of liberal 
feelings, and enlightened mind. It contains one of the 
finest halls for public speaking, that there is in the city. 
The meetings of the debating societies are held here. 

The building presents a view of three stories in front, 
though it has no room, at the base, the space being de- 
voted, by a peculiar construction, to the purposes of a 
play-ground for the pupils, and is supported by rough 
granite pillars, admitting a free circulation of air and 
light. The exterior and interior are of a superior order, 
embracing every convenience for a large school, and 
administering, in a high degree, to the comfort and pro- 
gress of the pupils. The school kept here is intended 
to be of the first order, and to embrace all that is most 
valuable in an academic course. 

JOV'S BUILDINGS 

Is situated nearly opposite the head of State Street, 
and was erected in 1809 on the spot formerly occupied 
by the First Church. The building has recently been 
remodelled on the plan of an Arcade, which makes it 
convenient for mercantile business, offices, &c. It was 
formerly known by the name of Cornhill Square. 



BRIDGES. 

Some of the most striking objects to attract the stran- 
ger on visiting Boston, are our bridges which lead from 
its various points. Although we cannot boast of so 
grand superstructures as the ancient city of London, we 
nevertheless have a greater number of those convenient 
avenues. The subject of Free Bridges, has recently 



92 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

been agitated, and received considerable countenance 
from our state authorities; and it is to be hoped the 
period is not far distant when all the bridges communi- 
cating with the metropolis will be made free. Except- 
ing Craigie's and the Warren bridge, where the carriage 
way is covered with earth, the construction of all 
the bridges is similar, and the rates of toll are the 
same as the Charles River Bridge, excepting the Bos- 
ton South Bridge, and the Boston Free Bridge, which 
belongi to the city. All these bridges are well Ughted 
by lamps, when the evenings are dark, and the lights, 
placed at regular distances, have a splendid and romantic 
appearance. 

CHARLES RIVER BRIDGE. 

The first great undertaking, since the revolution, was 
the erection of a bridge over Charles River, in the place 
where the ferry between Boston and Charlestown was 
kept.* The Act, which incorporated Messrs. John Han- 
cock, Thomas Russel, Nath. Gorham, and Ebenezer 
Parsons, and others, who had subscribed to a fund for 
executing and completing this purpose, was passed 
March 9, 1785, and the bridge was so far completed that 
the last pier was ready to be put down on the 31st of 
May, 1786. 

On the 17th of June, the bridge was opened for pas- 
sengers. Preparation had been made for great festivity 
on the occasion. Salutes of 13 guns were fired by sun- 
rise from Bunker and Copps' hills, and the bells of 
Christ Church rang repeated peals. This salute formed 

* At the time this bridge was built, it was considered the greatest un- 
dertaking that had ever been projeeted in America- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 99 

a contrast so striking, compared with the hostile and 
bloody one of the same day, of the same month, and of 
the week, in 75, as to excite in every breast emotions 
of the happiest kind. At 1, p. m. the proprietors as- 
sembled in the State House, at the head of State Street, 
for the purpose of waiting on the different branches of 
the legislature over the bridge. The procession con- 
sisted of almost every respectable character in public 
and private life ; as they moved from State Street, a sa- 
lute was fired from the Castle ; and upon their arrival at 
the entrance of the bridge, the attendant companies of 
artillery and artificers formed two lines on the right 
and left of the proprietors, and moved on to the centre 
of the bridge, when the President of the proprietary ad- 
vanced alone, and gave orders to Mr. Cox, the master 
workman, to fix the draw for the passage of the compa- 
ny, which was immediately done. At this moment 13 
cannon were fired from Copps' hill, and the procession 
passed forward, attended by the loudest shouts of accla- 
mation, from a concourse of at least 20,000 spectators. 
As the company ascended Breed's hill, 13 cannon were 
discharged. The gentlemen took their seats at two ta- 
bles of 320 feet, united at each end by a semi-circular 
one, which accommodated 800 persons, who spent the 
day in sober festivity, and separated at 6 o'clock. 

The following description of this bridge was publish- 
ed at the time, as taken from actual survey. The abut- 
ment at Charlestown, from the old landing, is 100 feet ; 
space to the first pier 16 1-2 feet; 63 piers at equal dis- 
tance to the draw 622 1-2 feet ; width of the draw 30 
feet ; 39 piers at equal distance from the draw 672 feet ; 
space to the abutment at Boston 16 1-2 feet ; abutment 
at Boston to the old landing 45 1-2 feet ; whole length 
1503 feet. 

9 



94 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

The 75 piers total, upon which this elegant structure 
stands, are each composed of 7 sticks of oak timber, 
united by a cap piece, strong braces and girts, and after- 
wards driven into the bed of the river, and firmly se- 
cured by a single pile on each side, driven obliqely to 
a solid bottom. The jDiers are connected to each other 
by large string-pieces, which are covered with 4 inch 
plank. The bridge is 42 feet in width, and on each side 
is accommodated with a passage 6 feet wide, railed in for 
the safety of people on foot. The Bridge has a gradu- 
al rise from each end, so as to be two feet higher in the 
middle than at the extremities. Forty elegant lamps 
are erected at suitable distances, to illuminate it when 
necessary. There are four strong stone wharves con- 
nected with three piers each, sunk in various parts of 
the river. 

The floor of the Bridge at the highest tides, is 4 feet 
above the water, which generally rises about 12 or 14 
feet. The distance where the longest pier is erected 
from the floor of the Bridge to the bed of the river, is 
64 1-2 feet. 

The cost of this bridge has been stated at £15,000, 
lawful, and the property was divided into 150 shares of 
£100, each. Rates of toll, to be double on Lord's days, 
were established, by the act of incorporation, which the 
proprietors were to enjoy for forty years, paying to the 
college at Cambridge, an annuity of £200, in conside- 
ration of their loss of income from the ferry. This 
period was extended to 70 years, and the double toll re- 
pealed when the charter was granted for West Boston. 
Bridge, at the expiration of which period the property 
reverts to the state. 

There had been considerable effort to have the first 
bridge carried from West Boston to Cambridge, but the 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 05 

expediency of making the experiment across the nar- 
rower part of the river was so apparent, that the town 
of Boston had expressed an opinion almost unanimous 
(183S to 2) in favor of it. 

The stock of this corporation has been very produc- 
tive : It was stated in 1S26, on good authority, that a 
gentleman who was an original proprietor of one share, 
which cost £100, had received his principal and the in- 
terest upon the original cost, and a surplus of ^7000. 
The rates of toll for passing the bridge are, 



JFor Slage or Hack 








Is. 


« 


Chaise or Sulky 








8 pence. 


« 


Teams of any kind drawn by 


more 


than 


one beast, 


6 « 


(( 


one horse waggons or carts 








4 " 


u 


saddle horses 






2 pence 


& 2 thirds. 


<( 


hand cart and wheel barrow 






1 penny 


&. 2 thirds. 


.. 


each foot passenger 






, . 


of a penny. 






2 thirds 



WEST BOSTON BRIDGE. 

This was the second bridge built over Charles River. 
It is a conveyance from the west end of Cambridge St. 
to the opposite shore in Cambridge-port. A number of 
gentlemen were incorporated for the purpose of erecting 
this bridge, March 9, 1792, The causeway was begun 
July 15, 1792, and suspended after the 26th of Decem- 
ber, till the 20th of March, 1793, when the work was 
resumed. The wood work of the bridge was begun 
the 8th of April, 1793, and the bridge and causeway 
opened for passengers the 23d of November following, 
being seven months and an half from laying the first 
pier. The sides of the causeway are stoned, capstand, 
and railed ; on each side of which is a canal about 30 
feet wide. 



2483 ft. 


long 


275 ft. 


" 


87 1-2 


3344 


u 


7810 


a 


40 


u 



96 PICTURE OF BOSTOrV 

The bridge stands on 180 pierj, is 
Bridi^e over the gore, 14 " 
Abutment, Boston side, 
Causeway, 

Distance from end of the causeway to > 
Cambridge Meeting-house. j 

Width of the bridge, 
Railed on each side for foot passengers. 

To the Pi-oprietors a toll was granted for 70 years 
from the opening of the bridge, * which together with 
the causeway, was estimated to have cost about 
£23,000, 1. m. The principal undertaker for building 
the bridge, was Mr. Whiting. 

BOSTON SOUTH BRIDGE. 

The building of this bridge grew out of the project 
for annexing Dorchester Neck, so called, to Boston, as 
a part of the city. In the latter end of 1803, there were 
but 10 families on that peninsula, which comprised an 
extent of 560 acres of land. These families united with 
several citizens of Boston in a petition to the town for 
the privilege of being annexed thereto, ' upon the sin- 
gle condition that the inhabitants [of B.] will procure a 
bridge to be erected between Boston and Dorchester 
neck.' On the 31st of January, 1804, after several con- 
fused meetings on the subject, the town agreed to the 
proposition, on condition ' that the place from which and 
the terms on which the bridge should be built, shall be 
left entirely to the Legislature. Application was made 
to the General Court, and measures were in train for 
authorising a bridge from South Street to the point. 

* This term has since been extended to 70 years from the opening of 
Craigie's bridge. West Boston to pay the College 200Z. annually, and 
Craigie's to pay West Boston 100/. during their joisit exljteoce. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 97 

The inhabitants of the south end of the town, having 
opposed this measure in vain thus far in its progress, 
formed a plan at this juncture, in which they proposed 
to erect a bridge where the present bridge stands, and 
to obviate the objection that such a bridge would not 
lessen the distance from the point so much as the South 
Street bridge vi'ould, they offered to construct a commo- 
dious street across the flats from Rainsford's lane to 
the head of the proposed bridge. They presented a 
petition to the Court to be incoi-porated for these purpo- 
ses, upon the presumption that no liberty would be grant- 
ed for the erection of any other bridge, to the north- 
ward of their bridge, unless at some future period the 
increased settlement of this part of the country should 
be such, that the public exigencies should require the 
same. This plan and petition met with so favorable a 
reception, that the Dorchester point proprietors were 
induced to make a compromise with the South-end peti- 
tioners, in which it was agreed, that the South Street 
bridge should be abandoned, and that the South-end 
bridge should be transferred to the Dorchester company, 
and the proposed street be carried forward by the peti- 
tioners. A joint committee made a report on the basis 
of this compromise, which was accepted in concurrence 
Feb. 23d; and on the 6th of March, bills were passed 
for the three objects, the annexation of Dorchester neck 
to Boston, the incorporation of the Proprietors of Boston 
South Bridge, and also of the Front street Corporation 
in the town of Boston. 

Messrs. William Tudor, Gardiner Green, Jona. Ma- 
son, and Harrison Gray Otis, were the proprietors named 
in Boston South Bi-idge act. Seventy years improve- 
ment was allowed from the date of the first opening of 
said bridge for passengers, which took place in the sum- 
9* 



96 PICTURE OP BOSTON. 

mer of 1805. On the first of October, it was the scene 
of a mUitary display and sham fight. This bridge is 
1551 feet in length, and cost the proprietors about 
56,000 dollars. In 1832 the proprietors sold the bridge 
to the city for ^3,500 ; since which it has been put 
in thorough repair by the City, at an expense of 
^3,500, in addition to the amount paid by the Corpo- 
ration, and has been made a free highway, 

CANAL OR CRAIGIE's BRIDGE. 

This bridge runs from Barton's Point in Boston to 
Lechmere's Point in Cambridge. Its length is 2796 
feet ; its width 40 feet. The persons named in the Act 
incorporating this bridge, were John C. Jones, Loammi 
Baldwin, Aaron Dexter, Benjamin Weld, Jos. Coolidge, 
jr. Benjamin Joy, Gorham Parsons, Jonathan Ingersoll, 
John Beach, Abijah Cheever, Wm. B. Hutchins, Ste- 
phen Howard and Andrew Craigie. This bridge dif- 
fers from those previously built, in being covered with 
a layer of gravel on the floor of the bridge. It was first 
opened for passengers on Commencement day, August 
30, 1809. This bridge on the Cambridge side is united 
to Charlestown by Prison-point bridge, which is 1821 
feet long, and 35 feet broad, having but one side railed 
for foot passengers. The Boston and Lowell Rail Road 
runs parallel with, and about 100 feet north of Craigie's 
Bridge. 

WESTERN AVENUE. 

This splendid work was projected by Mr. Uriah Cot- 
ting, who with others associated, received an act of in- 
corporation, June 14, 1814, under the title of ' The Bos- 
ton and Roxbury Mill Corporation ;' the stock of which 
is divided into 3500 shares of $100 each. It was com- 
menced in 1818, under Mr. Cotting's direction, but he 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 09 

•did not live to witness its completion. His place was 
supplied by Col. Loammi Baldwin, and the road was op- 
ened for passengers, July 2, 1821. There was a splendid 
ceremony on the occasion ; a cavalcade of citizens 
at an early hour entered the city over the dam, and was 
welcomed on this side by the inhabitants, who waited to 
receive them. This Avenue or Mill Dam leads from 
Beacon Street in Boston, to Sewali's Point in Brookline, 
and is composed of solid mateiials water-tight, with a 
gravelled surface, raised three or four feet above high- 
water mark. It is one mile and a half in length, and a 
part of the way 100 feet in width. This dam cuts off 
and encloses about 601 acres of the southerly part of 
the back of Charles River Bay, over which the tide be- 
fore regularly flowed. The water that is now admitted 
is rendered subservient and manageable. Very exten- 
sive mill privileges are gained by the aid of a cross dam, 
running from the principal one to a point of land in Rox- 
bury, which divides the Reservoir or full Basin on the 
west, from the empty or running basin on the east. 
There are five pair of flood-gates in the long dam, 
grooved in massy piers of hewn stone : each pair moves 
from their opposite pivots towards the centre of the 
aperture on an horizontal platform of stone, until they 
close in an obtuse angle on a projected line cut on the 
platform, from the pivots in the piers to the centre of 
the space, with their angular points towards the open 
or uninclosed part of the bay, to shut against the flow of 
tide and prevent the passage of water into the empty 
basin. In this manner all the water is kept out from 
this basin, .except what is necessary to pass from the 
full basin, through the cross dam, to keep the mill works 
in operation. The reservoir is kept full by means of 
similar flood-gates, opening into the full basin, (when 



100 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

the rising of the tide gets ascendency over the water in 
the reservoir) and fills at every flow, and closes 
again on the receding of the tide. In this way, at 
every high tide, the reservor is filled, and a continual 
supply of water, to pass through sluice-ways in the cross 
dam, sufficient to keep in motion, at all times, at least 
100 mills and factories. At low water the flood-gates 
of the receiving basin open and discharge the water re- 
ceived from the reservoir. 

From this Avenue there are excellent roads leading 
to Roxbury, Brookline, Brighton and Watertown, which 
are very extensively travelled. Besides the income from 
the mill privileges the corporation receives a toll, which 
is granted by the act of incorporation, to be perpetual. 

BOSTON FREE BRIDGE. 

Within two years after the erection of the Boston 
South Bridge, an attempt was made for another to run 
from Sea Street to South Boston. Many other attempts 
have been made since that time, to establish a bridge 
at this place, but they were strongly opposed till the 
passage of an Act March 4, 1826, authorising the erection 
of the present bridge. The committee of the Legisla- 
ture, to whom was referred the subject, gave this rea- 
son for reporting in favor the bill : ' that if the public 
good or public interest required that the proposed 
bridge should be constructed, then the prayer of the 
petition should be granted ; that indemnification should 
be made for property taken for the use of the bridge, 
but to no greater extent ; that the navigable waters 
being public property, the legislature had the right 
to control the use of them. The committee therefore 
considered the only question arising was, whether the 
pubUc exigency required this bridge. It appeared that 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 101 

about 100,000 people, if this bridge were erected, 
would be saved a travel of one mile by coming from 
the south shore over this bridge, instead of over the 
Neck ; that an increasing intercourse would take place 
between the centre of business in the city and South 
Boston, and the distance be lessened a half a mile, 
which in a dense population was equal to ten or twenty 
miles in the country. The only objections to this 
bridge arose from persons in Roxbury, at the South 
End of Boston, and from a part of the proprietors of the 
present bridge ; that it did not appear that any others 
would be injured, and that these persons would not be 
injured to the extent they imagined. It was admitted 
that the navigation might be made a little inconvenient, 
but not so much so as was expected. It appeared that 
the present channel might, by individual right, be 
narrowed to three hundred feet, which would increase 
the current more than the proposed bridge ; that the 
present current was about one mile the hour, while 
that at Charlestown Bridge was three miles; that the 
increase to the price of wood if the bridge were erect- 
ed, would be only six cents the cord ; and that with one 
or two exceptions all the bridges in the State had 
been granted without any indemnity for consequential 
damages, other than compensation for property convert- 
ed to the use of such bridge. The committee came to 
the conclusion that no person ought to claim damages 
for an interruption of navigable waters ; that these wa- 
ters were held by the legislature in trust for all the citi- 
zens, and that no individual had the right to be secured 
indemnity for damages arising therefrom, when the pub- 
lic accommodation required such interruption.' 
This bridge was completed in 1828, by a company of 



102 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

gentlemen who were proprietors of lands at South Bos- 
ton, and by residents of that section, and who transfer- 
red it to the city in October. 

WARRKN BRIDGE. 

The subject of erecting a free bridge to lead from 
Boston to Charlestown was agitated in 1822. Subscrip- 
tions were raised and a petition presented to the Legis- 
lature for an act of incorporation, which was opposed 
with great skill and perseverance by the friends and 
proprietors of Charles River Bridge. The subject be- 
fore the Legislature was deferred from one session to 
another till the winter of 1827, when a bill for a free 
bridge passed both houses, and only wanted the Gov- 
ernor's signature to become a law. The Governor re- 
turned the bill with a message giving his reasons for not 
signing it. The petition was again renewed, but so va- 
ried, as to make it a toll bridge. Great principles were 
involved in this subject, which the representatives of 
the people calmly and deliberately considered before 
they decided. The final bill was passed in the House 
of Representatives, Feb. 29. — Yeas 152, nays 134; in 
the Senate, March 9, — Yeas 19, nays 17, and the Gov- 
ernor approved the act March 12, 1828. The distinc- 
tion which was said to have been made by the Governor, 
between this bill and the one to which he refused his 
sanction the year previous, was, that the Legislature 
had in the passage of the present act virtually decided, 
that the public convenience and necessity, aside from 
consideration of tolls, required another avenue over 
Charles River, which was not the case with the pre- 
vious bill. 

The erection of this bridge was commenced early the 
following spring, and while in progress, the proprietors 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 103 

of Charles River Bridge made an application to the Su- 
preme Judicial Court on the 28th of June, by a hill in 
Equity, for an injunction against further proceedings in 
the erection of Warren Bridge. The court decided that 
the time for hearing should be extended to the 5th of 
August, and a special session was held at that time, act- 
ing as a Court of Chancery, when Messrs. Shaw, Gor- 
ham and Webster, appeared as a counsel for the appli- 
cants, and Messrs. Fletcher and Aylin for the respon- 
dents. After hearing the parties by their counsel, on 
the 12th of August, the Court refused to grant the In- 
junction. 

This bridge was so far finished by the 25th of Sep- 
tember as to admit of persons walking over it. It is a 
more complete and elegant structure, than any other 
bridge in Boston. It is placed on 75 piers, about 18 
feet from each other, and measures 1390 feet long ; is 
44 feet wide, allowing 30 feet for the carriage way, and 
seven feet on each side, which is railed for foot passen- 
gers. The floor of the biidge consists of hewn timber, 
one foot thick, on which is spread four inches of clay, 
then a layer of gravel six inches, over the whole sur- 
face, and finished by Macadamizing eight inches thick; 
making the whole thickness of the bridge 30 inches. 
This bridge is placed lower than any of the other bridges, 
that the timbers might be occasionally wet by the 
highest tides, which it is supposed will tend to their 
preservation. 

The proprietors are granted a toll, the same as the 
Charles River Bridge, until they are reimbursed the 
money expended, with five per cent interest thereon, 
provided that period should not extend beyond the term 
of six years from the first opening of the bridge ; at 
which time, (or sooner, if the reimbursement, by the 



104 PICTURE OF BOSTON 

receipts of tolls should permit,) the bridge is to revert 
to the State in good repair. By the act of incorporation 
the proprietors are required to pay one half the sum al- 
lowed Harvard College, annually, from the proprietors 
of Charles River bridge. The amount of tolls received 
has nearly paid the cost of the bridge ; and it is highly 
probable, it will become the property of the State and 
be made free in 1833. 

WINNISIMET FERRY. 

This ferry, which has become an important avenue 
to the city, is between the northerly end of Hanover 
Street and Chelsea, and is a little over one mile in length. 
It is the oldest ferry in New England, and is believed 
to be the earliest established in the United States. Its 
name is derived from the Indian name of Chelsea. 
Connected with this Ferry, there are many interesting 
facts that might be given, but the limits of our work 
does not admit of our entering into its early history. 

There are two excellent steam ferry boats, for the 
transportation of passengers, horses and carriages. 
They leave the ways every eight or ten minutes from 
sunrise to sunset. A third boat is to be put on the line ; 
and it is in contemplation to connect the Salem rail road 
with this ferry. 

MEDICAL COLLEGE. 

The Medical College, a department of Harvard Uni- 
versity, in which the several professors give an annual 
course of lectures, commencing the last Wednesday in 
October, is located in Mason Street, directly back of 
Fayette-place. External beauty is not a very promi- 
nent characteristic of this edifice ; but its internal 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



105 



conveniences and accommodations, are very superior. 
There is an Anatomical Theatre, in the centre ; a chym- 
ical laboritory under it, and in the south wing, a lecture 
room for the professor of theory and practice of physic, 
capable of holding 150 students. In the west wing, 
upon the first floor, is a convenient consultation room. 
There is also an extensive Anatomical Museum, ad- 
joining the Theatre, and a Dissecting Room contiguous. 

THE MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL 




Has been pronounced the finest building in the State, 
It stands on a small eminence open to the south, east, 
and west. It is 168 feet in length, and 54 in its greatest 
breadth, having a portico of eight lonick columns in 
front. It is built of Chelmsford granite, the columns 
and their capitals being of the same material. In the 
centre of the two principal stories are the rooms of the 
officers of the institution. Above these is the Operating 
Theatre which is lighted from the dome. The wings 
of the building are divided into wards and sick rooms. 
10 



106 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

The stair case and floorings of the entries are of stone. 
The whole house is supplied with heat by air-flues from 
furnaces, and with water by pipes and a forcing pump. 
The beautiful hills which surround Boston are seen from 
every part of the building, and the grounds on the south 
west are washed by the waters of the bay. The prem- 
ises have been improved by the planting of ornamental 
trees and shrubs, and the extension of the gravel walks 
for those patients whose health will admit of exercise in 
the open air. 

Towards the close of the last century a gentleman 
died in Boston, leaving a bequest in his will of $5000 
towards the building of a hospital. This circumstance 
was attended with the beneficial effect of awakening 
the attention of the public to the subject. Nothing 
however was effected before August, 1810, when two 
physicians living in this town addressed a circular, in 
which the advantages of a hospital were stated, to sev- 
eral gentlemen of Boston, possessed of ample fortunes 
and disposed to contribute to institutions in which the ' 
pubUc good was concerned. In the beginning of 1811, 
fifty six gentlemen, living in different parts of the com- 
monwealth, were incorporated by the name of the Mass. 
General Hospital. Their charter allowed the corpora- 
tion to hold property to the amount of $00,000 yearly 
income. It also granted to the Hospital a fee simple in 
the estate of the old Province House, on the condition 
that 100,000 should be raised by subscription within 
ten years. Little exertion was made before the autumn 
of 1816, when a subscription was commenced that was 
attended with uncommon success. In the towns of Bos- 
ton, Salem, Plymouth, Charlestown, Hingham and 
Chelsea (including a few subscriptions in some other 
towns) 1047 individuals subscribed either to the Hospital 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 107 

or the Asylum for the insane. Paore than 200 of these 
contributed $100 or more, and several from .^^1000 to 
^5000, and one ^20,000. Donations of equal and larger 
amounts have since been made, which have increased 
the funds of this institution, for immediate use and per- 
manent stock, to a greater sum than any other among 
us has realized, excepting the University at Cam- 
bridge. 

In 1816, the Trustees purchased the estate at Charles- 
town belonging to the late Mr, Barrel, formerly cal- 
led Poplar Grove, and have there built two brick houses, 
besides the requisite out houses, for an insane hospital. 
In IS 17, they purchased four acres in a field at the 
west end of Boston, called Prince's Pasture, and on the 
4th day of July, 1818, the corner stone of the present 
Hospital was there laid, in the presence of many per- 
sons of great dignity in public life, and of a numerous 
assemblage of citizens. The civil, religious and ma- 
sonic services were performed with such impressive 
pomp as rendered the whole scene truly solemn and in- 
teresting. This building was so far completed on the 
1st of September, 1821, as to be in a fit condition to re- 
ceive patients. 

All applications must be made to the Superintendant 
for the admission of patients to the Hospital, and in all 
cases in which the patient is able, he or she should 
appear there in person. The application may be 
made by a friend, between 8 and 9 o'clock in the morn-^ 
ing, on any day except Sunday. The Physicians and 
Surgeons will not attend to any applications respecting 
the Hospital at their houses, unless in cases really 
urgent. In cases of accident, in which it may be desira- 
ble to carry the patient directly to the Hospital, appli- 
cation for a permit may be made to one of the Trustees, 



108 PICTURE OF BOSTON 

or of the Medical officers. Friends are allowed to visit 
patients in the Hospital, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fri- 
days and Saturdays, from 12 to 1 o'clock. 

It seems to be generally understood through the coun- 
try, that this institution is the most safe as well as the 
most economical place of resort in all difficult and dan- 
gerous cases, especially such as require operation ; one 
of the consequences of this general sentiment in regard 
to the Hospital, is, that many diseases are presented 
there which are in their nature incurable — whence it 
has followed, that as the reputation of the Institution 
has increased, the number of cases reported incurable 
or not relieved has also increased. The patients under 
the daily care of skilful, intelligent, and eminent sur- 
geons and physicians, are watched over by faithful and 
attentive nurses, and in truth the minor officers and do- 
mestics, under the vigilant eye of Mr. and Mrs. Gurney, 
(the approved superintendent and matron) continue to 
give the sick poor, all the comfort and relief, with all 
the chances of restoration, which the kindness of friends, 
or the influence of money, could command for those fa- 
voured with both. 

MACLEAN ASYLUM. 

This Asylum for the Insane, was opened to receive 
boarders, October 1, 1818, under the direction of the 
Trustees of the Massachusetts General Hospital, it be- 
ing a branch of that institution. It is situated in 
Charlestown, about one mile from Boston, on a delight- 
ful eminence, and consists of an elegant house for the 
Superintendent, with a v\dng at each end, handsomely 
constructed of brick, for the accommodation of the in- 
mates. The name of McLean was given to this Hos- 
pital in respect of John McLean, Esq. a liberal bene- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 109 

factor of the General Hospital. No private dwelling 
can command the attention, comfort, cleanliness, watch- 
fulness, warmth without danger, and many wholesome 
indulgences, and restraints, which a building construct- 
ed for the purpose, and attendants accustomed to the 
kind discharge of their trust, can afford. 

UNITED STATES MARINE HOSPITAL, 

This Hospital is situated in Chelsea about three miles 
from Boston, and was built in 1827. It is intended for 
the temporary relief of sick and disabled seamen ; into 
which all mariners who have paid hospital money are 
admitted, except those who are afHicted with conta- 
gious or incurable diseases, or insane persons. It is 
constructed of grey granite, is elegant and capacious ; 
and beautifully situated, commanding a fine view of 
Boston harbour. 

QUARANTINE HOSPITAL, 

This Hospital is situated on Rainsford Island in Bos- 
ton Harbour, six miles from the city. This Island has 
been the only regular Quarantine ground, since our 
first settlement, and its early history, before it became 
the property of the Commonwealth is but little known. 
It is said 'that Mr. Rainsford, from whom it derived 
its name, purchased it of the Indians, who afterwards 
ceded it to the colony of Massachusetts.' The harbour 
being more safe for vessels, at Rainsford's than at any 
other island, — it is probable that this circumstance first 
induced merchants to fix upon it for that purpose. Be- 
fore the colony had any settled laws, in relation to epi- 
demic, or imported malignant diseases, it was custom- 
ary, from common consent, to send sickly crews to this 
island. It contains about eleven acres, and has a high 
10* 



110 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

bank on the north and north-east, about 25 feet above 
high water. All the buildings here together with the 
whole island are devoted to quarantine purposes, and 
are under the controul of the city government. 

There is one large two story dwelling house, which 
is a tavern licenesd by the authorities, for the accom- 
modation of those who arrive from sea, in which the 
keeper's family reside. There is a well arranged read- 
ing room, which, by the liberality of the editors and 
publishers of papers in the city, is furnished during the 
quarantine months, with all the principal newspapers 
in the United States. In the physician's office, are kept 
the records of the island, the arrivals and quarantine of 
vessels, and the medicines for the Hospital. All the 
second story is divided into sleeping rooms. To the 
south east of the dwelling house stands a Smallpox 
Hospital for colored people, recently put in excellent 
order, which, though small, will accommodate a large 
number of patients. The Fever Hospital is elevated, 
and at a distance has an air of elegance. It is a long one 
story building, with wide jutting eves, four feet in 
width, projecting over the doors. A plank walk of the 
same width, on a level with the threshold, affords a de- 
lightful promenade for convalescent patients, secure 
from the sun and rain. Each room is furnished with 
two low, single beds, suitable crockery, linen, &c. so 
that it does away the necessity of carrying articles from 
one apartment to another. This building faces the west, 
the windows of which have green blinds, A splendid 
stone edifice, three stories in front, surrounded by dou- 
ble piazzas, was erected by the commonwealth in 1832, 
for the reception of Smallpox patients. There is not a 
more convenient and well constructed building of the 
kind to be found. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. Ill 

The Health Officer's residence is a gothie cottage, on 
a beautiful elevation, overlooking the whole establish- 
ment. There are two wharves on one of which is a 
public store, and the other, several hundred feet in 
length, at which six vessels may conveniently discharge 
at the same time, is opposite the hide and wool stores, 
at the west part of the island. 

All the buildings and fences are white, and the gravel 
walks, and great variety of fruit trees, and well culti- 
vated gardens, give the quarantine ground a beautiful 
as well as a highly inviting aspect. 

All the furniture of the hospital, which is of good, 
but plain materials, is owned and replenished, from 
time to time, by the city. On a level point of land, at 
the southern extremity of the island, and to the south- 
west of the hospital, are two large store houses, in 
which goods are secured when landed. 

Besides the buildings already enumerated, belonging 
to the establishment, there is a large workshop for re- 
pairing boats and their rigging, a boat house, to secure 
the small boats in winter ; a smoke house, to fumigate 
infected clothing, or wearing apparel of persons who 
have died at sea ; a barn and other necessary out- 
houses. 

The quarantine laws of Massachusetts, as enforced 
in this port, are as nearly perfect as could be expected : 
the general opinion of experienced navigators gives the 
preference to our system and ordinances over all others. 
Besides this flattering encomium on the wisdom of our 
legislature, and the municipal authorities of the city, 
who have endeavoured to raise an impassable barrier to 
foreign contagion, we are sincerely thankful for the se- 
curity we enjoy from foreign pestilence, by meaoti of 
these excellent regulations of health. 



112 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

The officers, to whom is given the particular man- 
agement of the quarantine on Rainsford Island, are 
first, the Resident Physician. From the 15th of June 
till the loth of September, he is obliged to reside per- 
manently on the Island. An island keeper, with a 
salary of 350 dollars from the city, and 40 dollars and 10 
cords of wood, yearly, from the commonwealth, takes 
charge of all the property which is landed. He is also 
chosen by the City Council annually. Dui'ing the par- 
ticular quarantine months, the police of the island is en- 
tirely vested in the Resident Physician, who detains 
vessels no longer than is necessary for ventilation : and 
discharges them whenever, in his best judgment, he 
believes they can proceed to the city without danger to 
the inhabitants. A red flag is hoisted on an eminence, 
and all the inward bound pilots are instructed to bring 
all vessels, coming from ports within the tropics, into 
the quarantine roads, for the physician's examination 
and passport. 

Till 1824, the quarantine months were from May to 
October ; since that period the time is fixed from the 
15th of June till the 15th of September, though ves- 
sels, having contagious diseases on board, are obliged 
to go into quarantine at all seasons, and the physician is 
also obliged to attend at the hospital. 

A daily journal is kept of all occurrences on the is- 
land, and the names of persons who have permits to 
land from the city clerk, are carefully recorded. Dr. 
J. V. C. Smith has been the Quarantine Physician since 
1826. 

TRADE AND COMMERCE. 

The merchants of Boston have been particularly dis- 
tinguished for their commercial enterprise ; and this 



PICTURE OP BOSTON. 113 

gave an early importance to the place. At this time, 
however, there seems to be a decided predilection for 
manufactures, which require a large portion of that im- 
mense capital which was formerly exerting its influ- 
ence on navigation. There is no doubt that as much 
trade and commerce is carried on by our citizens, as is 
safe and consistent with a steady and sure progress to 
prosperity. After all the croakings of the discontented, 
and the frightful prognostications of the unfortunate, it 
is believed to be susceptible of proof, that as much busi- 
ness is done in Boston, in proportion to its number of 
inhabitants, as in any other city in the union. 

WHARVES. 

Nearly the whole peninsula of Boston is bounded by 
wharves and piers, which are near 200 in number, and 
many of them very extensive, being nearly three fur- 
longs in length. These are provided with spacious 
stores and warehouses, with every convenience for the 
safe mooring and security of vessels. 

LONG WHARF 

Is the oldest and longest wharf in Boston. The stores 
are extensive and are built of brick. Near the centre 
of this wharf on the south side, is an excellent well of 
fresh water, which affords a great convenience for the 
supply of vessels. 

INDIA WHARF 

The building of this wharf was commenced in 1805, 
while the improvements in Broad Street were making. 
India Street, extending from India Wharf to the head 
of Long Wharf, waa the next ioiprovoment, and was 
finished in 1809. 



114 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



CENTRAI. WHARF 

Was completed in the year 1816. It extends into the 
harbour, from India Street about midway between Long 
and India Wharves, and is 1240 feet in length, and 150 
in width. There are 54 stores on this wharf, four sto- 
ries high. There is a spacious hall in the centre, over 
which is erected an elegant observatory. The stores 
are fifty feet in width, and stand in the middle of the 
wharf, so that there is, on either side, the best of ac- 
commodation for the landing and delivery of merchan- 
dise. It has been remarked, that for extent, conve- 
nience, and elegance combined, Central Wharf is not 
exceeded by any in the commercial world. 

THE MARINE TELEGRAPH OBSERVATORY- 

Ceatral Wliavf. 

Telegraph operations have long^ been considered of 
primary importance in Europe ; few seaports only in 
this country have as yet attempted similar establish- 
ments ; the advantages that have resulted are so gen- 
erall}' known and appreciated, that a recapitulation is 
unnecessary. Although many improvements have been 
made in the different systems used in transmitting in- 
formation by telegraph, yet this science may still be 
considered in its infancy. One of the steps towards 
perfection, in the art is the adoption of a universal sys- 
tem, sufficiently comprehensive in its indications to su- 
percede the tedious process of spelling: Desirous of 
showing its importance, if carried to the extent of 
which this science is capable, we cannot but remark 
with surprise how few persons have turned their at- 
tention to its utility ; and to this circumstance we may 
impute tlio slow progress it has obtained. To a great 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 115 

commercial country having such an extent of sea coast 
as the United States of America, in continual inter- 
course, not only with each other, but with the whole 
<;ommercial world, nothing can be more important and 
worthy of regard, than the means of facilitating that 
intercourse, and promoting the safety and comfort of 
those engaged in carrying it on. To enable vessels to 
communicate intelligence to each other with ease when 
they are at sea, and to the shore when they are ap- 
proaching it, and to announce their arrival in our bay, 
are objects of primary importance. The marine tele- 
graphic flags are six in number, arranged in the foU 
lowing order. 

In addition to these six there is a single flag, 
called the conversation flag, which is used for no 
(Other purpose than to express a desire to make a com- 
munication from one vessel to another. They are to be 
of no other color than blue and white, and they will, when 
hoisted singly, or in combination, express words, phrases 
and sentences, and are capable of 9330 changes, as con- 
tained in a numerical telegraphic dictionary, combining 
great comprehension, power and despatch, being ap- 
plicable to naval, political and civil purposes. Among 
the advantages derived from the use of the telegraph 
flags are the following. Vessels meeting at sea, as 
long as they continue within visible distance, without 
altering their course, can communicate any species of 
intelligence, either their names, from what port they 
sailed, what voyage they have had, what vessels they 
have left in port, or that had preceded them, and par- 
ticularly relative to what vessels they may have fallen 
in with, if in want of provisions, stores, assistance or in- 
formation, their latitude and longitude, casualties, or 
any observations they have mad© during the voyage. 



116 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

With these facilities, no shipmaster ought to go to sea 
without providing his vessel with such ample means of 
communicating and conversing in a language, that is 
becoming universal on the ocean 

Connected with the foregoing system, Mr. Parker, 
the conducter of the Telegraph, has lately pubUshed a 
book, entitled The United States Telegraph Vocabu- 
lary, comprising above twelve thousand phrases, sen- 
tences and words, intended as an Appendix to the Ma- 
rine Telegraph Signal Book, wherein is embodied the 
Holyhead numerals. This adjunct will be obviously 
beneficial, and must be considered of much importance 
to the interests of British and American commerce. 
The harbour operations from the observatory have un- 
dergone a vast improvement by the adoption of the new 
Semaphonic Telegraph, consisting of two arms and an 
indicator at the top, to denote the letter of the alphabet 
from whence the communication proceeds, each of 
which arms revolves into six distinct positions, to cor- 
respond with the six distinctions in the telegraphic flags. 
This is an original invention, combining simplicity of 
plan, with certainty and celerity in its executions. The 
name of the vessel, her passage, and the port from 
whence she came, is communicated from the pilot 
boats in the bay, to the outer station, located upon 
Point Alderton Hill at Nantasket, from thence to the 
repeating station at George's Island, or to the maritime 
station at Rainsford Island, thence to the observatory on 
Central Wharf, all which communications are immedi- 
ately transmitted to the City Hall Reading Room, to the 
Insurance Offices, and to the owners of the vessels 
thus announced. 

The patrons to the telegraph establishment expect- 
ing vessels from foreign ports, are furnished with tele- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 117 

egraph designating numbers, which are displayed at the 
Observatory as soon as they make their appearance in 
the bay. Sets of flags at a trifling expense, with a des- 
ignating number and a signal book, are supplied to 
vessels, whose names are thereby designated, and are 
transmitted to the respective agents in the several sea- 
ports throughout the union, and by them inserted in all 
the signal books extant ; consequently when two ves- 
sels are in sight of each other at sea, they can re- 
port themselves by displaying their designating num- 
bers. 

The above establishment was put into operation in 
1823 ; its utility is very manifest, and it is not merely 
in a mercantile but national point of view, that the 
Marine Telegraph should be regarded. Already twelve 
hundred sail of vessels have adopted this system, and it 
is said by those capable of judging, that this establish- 
ment is under better regulations and more extensively 
used than any other in the United States. 

It is earnestly hoped that the active and enterpris- 
ing conductor will meet with that general patronage 
to which his praiseworthy exertions so justly entitle 
him. 

MERCANTILE WHARF. 

This might more properly be termed a street, and is 
that which ranges in front of the harbour, between the 
City Wharf and Lewis' Wharf. Warehouses have been 
erected on the north-west side nearly its whole length, 
and is now becoming a place of considerable business. 
This improvement has been made by the Mercantile 
Wharf Corporation, in the years 1828 and 1829. By it 
the northern extremity of the city is brought almost into 
II 



118 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

contact with the centre, and when more fully completed, 
it will prove to have been one of the most advantageous 
of all the great undertakings of Bostonian enter- 
prise. 

lewis' wharf 
Has also been a place of considerable trade. It has 
now become valuable in consequence of the great im- 
provement, which has raised a new wharf and street 
between it and the City Market wharf. 

COMMERCIAL WHARF. 

This wharf lies between Winnsimit Ferry and Charles 
River Bridge, and was built and owned by the late Hon. 
William Gray who was the largest ship owner in the 
United State.^. 

THE MARINE RAILWAYS 

Built near the North Battery Wharf, has been in suc- 
cessful operation since November 22, 1826, affording 
facilities for the repairs of large vessels; and from 
which those interested in navigation experience consid- 
erable saving and accommodation. To give some idea 
of the despatch here afforded, it is only necessary to 
state the fact, that the ship Arabella of 404 tons register, 
was drawn on the ways in February, 1827, and copper- 
ed in sixteen working hours. 

ISLANDS IN BOSTON HARBOUR. 

The islands in Boston harbour are delightful resorts for 
citizens and strangers during the hot summer weather. 
If there are natural beauties — romantic elevations, or 
silent and wild retreats, in the vicinity of Boston, worth 
the poet's and philosopher's attention, they are in the 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 119 

harbour ; but to be admired they must be seen. These 
islands are gradually wearing away, and where large 
herds of cattle were pastured sixty years ago, the ocean 
now rolls its angry billows, and lashes with an over- 
whelming surge the last remains of earth. From the 
appearance which the islands present at this period, 
these were once round, or in other words, were nearly 
circular at the base, and rose above the water like a 
dome ; but the northern blasts, in connexion with the 
terrible force of the tides accompanying such storms, 
have completely washed away every one of them upon 
the north side, in such a manner that they actually ap- 
pear like half an island, — having had a vertical section, 
and hence there is a perpendicular bank facing the 
north, while the south and west gradually slope to the 
edge. To the east, the tide has made some destruction, 
but it bears no proportion to the north. This peculiari- 
ty is observable in all the islands which have soil. To- 
wards the outer light house, the islands are almost bar- 
ren ledges of rocks, — having been washed of the earth, 
from time immemorial. It is on the north eastern sides, 
that the most danger is to be apprehended. Thompson's 
Island, lying between the Castle and Moon Head, is 
secured by natural barriers, as the former receives and 
resists the force of the tide before it reaches Thomp- 
son's ; but Long Island, although defended in a mea- 
sure by Rainsford, Gallop, George's, and Level's Is- 
lands, has lost considerable soil. Spectacle Island, so 
called from its supposed resemblance to a pair of spec- 
tacles, is sifting away by slow degrees, and nothing 
will prevent it. 

George's isla^nd. 
This Island is the key to the harbour, — commanding 
the open sea, affording one of the best places for fortifi- 



120 PICTURE OF BOSTON- 

cations of any among the number. There is an eleva- 
tion on the east and northeast, nearly 50 feet above high 
water mark, in some places, with an easy ascent to- 
wards the south and southwest to the channel. This is 
the property of the United States. Fifty thousand dol- 
lars have already been appropriated by Government for 
building a sea wall on the northeast. A trench was 
dug at the foot, below the low water mark, in which 
the foundation has been laid. This was made of split 
stone, of great weight, and bolted together with copper. 
We have never seen any masonry that would compare 
with it, in point of strength and workmanship. On 
this, a second wall is erected, equally formidable, on 
which the artillery is to be mounted. Under the su- 
perintendence of Capt. Smith, whose good judgment 
has been exercised from the beginning, we may expect 
a fort in the outer harbour that will bid defiance to 
all the ships of war that ever sailed. 

CASTLE ISLAND, 

On which stands Fort Independence, was selected as 
the most suitable place for a fortress for the defence of 
the harbour, as early as 1633. It was built at first with 
mud walls, which soon fell to decay, and was after- 
wards rebuilt with pine trees and earth. In a short 
time, this also become useless, and a small castle was 
built with brick walls, and had three rooms in it ; a 
dwelling room, a lodging room over it, and a gun room 
over that. The erection of this castle gave rise to the 
present name of the island. 

governor's island, 

Lies about one mile north of Castle Island, and was 
first called Conant's Island. It was demised to Gov. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 121 

Winthrop in 16S2, and for many years after, was call- 
ed the Governor's garden. It is now in the possession 
of James Winthrop, Esq. a descendant of the first Go- 
vernor, excepting a part conveyed by him to the United 
States, for the purpose of constructing a fortress now 
called Fort Warren. Its situation is very commanding, 
and in some respects superior to Castle Island. 

noddle's island 

Was first occupied by Samuel Maverick. He was on 
it when the settlement of Boston commenced. He 
built a fort in which he mounted four cannon, and after- 
wards had a grant of it from the General Court. In 
1814, a strong fortress was built on this island by the 
citizens, and called Fort Strong, in honour of the Gov- 



POINT SHIRLEY 

Formerly had the name of Pulling Point. The name 
which it now bears was given it by the proprietors, as 
a mark of respect to the late Gov. Shirley. 

DEER ISLAND 

Is a delightful island, and is owned and leased by 
the city. It is a place of great resort in the summer sea- 
son, for parties of pleasure. Here is a large and conve- 
nient house, with a spacious ball room and other conve- 
niences, for the accommodation of visitors. The gen- 
eral government are now building a sea wall round it 
of a formidable character. The first appropriation of 
congress towards the object was eighty-seven thousand 
dollars. Over one mile of the wall is now completed. 
IP 



122 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

LIGHT-HOUSE ISLAND, 

Was known for many years by the name of Beacon 
Island. The first light house was erected in 1715. 
Pilots are established at this place, provided with excel- 
lent boats, and a piece of artillery to answer signal guns. 

Thompson's island. 

This is a promontory, nearly a mile and a half long, 
jutting into the harbour, opposite Spectacle Island. 
The Farm School Association have fixed upon this for 
the scene of their future operations. 

nix's mate 

Is an irregular, barren and rocky base of an island, 
between Gallop and Long Island head, almost entirely 
concealed at high water. There is a beacon, of split 
stone in the centre, nearly 40 feet square, fastened to- 
gether by copper bolts, which perfectly secures it from 
the tremendous force of the waves, in times of north- 
easterly gales. To speak more definitely, the shape is 
a parallelogram, the sides being 12 feet high, and as- 
cended by stone steps on the south side. On the top of 
this, is a six-sided pyramid of wood, 20 feet high, with 
one window to the south. This is the conspicuous part 
of the beacon, and serves as a prominent warning to 
seamen, to keep from the dangerous shoal on which it 
stands. At low tide, more than an acre of land is visi- 
ble, and at high tide, only small boats can sail to the 
monument. A very aged gentleman states, that he 
can remember when Nix's Mate was a verdant island, 
on which a large number of sheep were pastured. For- 
ty years ago, although the soil is now completely gone, 
there was pasturage for 50 head of sheep, entirely 
above high water mark. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 123 

Tradition says, that the master of a vessel whose 
name was Nix, was murdered by his mate, and buried 
on this island, some century and a half ago. The mate 
was executed for the horrid crime, but declared he was 
innocent of the murder, and prophesied that the island, 
as an evidence of his innocence, would be entirely 
washed away. He was executed nearly on the spot 
where the pyramid is erected. The total disappear- 
ance of the land, above water, has led many to believe 
the truth of his assertion —that he was unjustly put to 
death. The circumstance was handed down from one 
generation to another, till the erection of the beacon, 
when by general consent, among seamen, it took the 
name of Nix's Mate. It was the custom about a cen- 
tury ago to hang pirates in chains on this Island, to strike 
a terror to sailors as they come into port, that the influ- 
ence might deter them from the commission of such 
wickedness. 

BOSTON CHURCHES. 

The towering domes and lofty spires, which mark the 
numerous temples dedicated to public worship, consti- 
tute a pleasing variety in the view of the city, whether 
it is approached by land or water. They have been 
the scenes of many interesting events, and with their 
history are blended many tender associations and ani- 
mating recollections. When religion shall become the 
glory of all lands, ' the glory of the children ' of Boston, 
shall be ' their fathers.' 

Our capital has not indeed been unmindful of the ad- 
vantages which she has in this respect possessed ; nor 
of her correspondent obligations. It would be difficult 
to point to any section of Christendom, where the min- 



124 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

isters of the gospel have been uniformly treated with 
greater attention, respect and affection. So notorious is 
the truth of this remark, that Boston has long been pro- 
verbially characterized as The Paradise of Clergymen. 
May this continue to be her glory ; and may she bring 
forth in more and more copious harvests, the best fruits 
of religious institutions, inherited from our fathers, nur- 
tured with pious care, and blessed with the smiles of a 
benignant Providence ! 

FIRST CHURCH CHAUNCV PLACE. 

Constituted July 30, 1630. 



Ministtrs. 


Settlement. 


Exit, As, 


e. * 


1 John Wilson, 


August 27, 1630 


August 7, 1667 


78 


2 John Cotton, 


Oct. 10, 1633 


Dec. 15, 1652 


67 


3 John Norton, 


July 23, 1656 


April 5, 1663 


£7 


4 John Davenport, 


Dec. 9, 1668 


March 12, 1670 


73 


5 James Allen, 


Dec. 9, 1668 


Sept. 22, 1710 


78 


6 John Oxenbridge, 


April 10, 1671 


Dec. 28, 1674 


65 


7 Joshua Moodey,t 


May 3, 1684 


1692 


— 


8 John Bailey,t 


July 7, 1693 


Dec. 12, 1697 


54 


9 Benj. Wadsworth, 


Sept. 8, 1696 


June 16, 1725 + 


C8 


10 Thomas Bridge, 


May 10, 1705 


Sept. 26, 1715 


58 


11 Thomas Foxcrolt, 


Nov. 20, 1717 


June 16, 1769 


73 


12 Ch. Chauncy, D. D. 


Oct. 25, 1727 


Feb. 10, 1787 


82 


13 John Clarke, D. D. 


July 8, 1778 


April 1, 1798 


43 


14 Wm. Emerson, 


Oct. 16, 1799 


May 12, 1811 


42 


15 John L. Abott, 


July 14, 1813 


Oct. 17, 1814 


31 


16 N. L. Frothingham, 


March 15, 1815 







The house now occupied by this Church, in Chauncy 
Place, is their fourth place of worship. The first, which 

* When the age is given or left blank in this column, it will be un- 
derstood that the minister died in office ; when a dash is used that he 
withdrew. 

t These were Assistant Ministers. 

X Dismissed to become President of Harvard College ; died March 
12, 1737. ^t. 68. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 125 

was built in 1632, stood on the south side of State Street, 
probably on the spot occupied by the Dawes' building 
so called, on the south-east corner of State and Devon- 
shire Streets. That was sold 1640, and a new house 
erected on the plat which is now covered by the block 
of buildings, called Joy's buildings, opposite the head 
of State Street. This house was burnt in the great 
fire, Oct. 2d, 1711. The next was a large brick edi- 
fice, erected on the same spot, which being the first 
regular church built of brick obtained in time the name 
of the Old Brick. It remained, a monument of the 
faithful labour of former generations, until the year 
1808, the last service in it having been performed on 
the 17th, and the first in the present house on the 21st 
of July, in that year. 

The Church in Chauncy Place is so called, from the 
circumstance of its being built on a piece of ground 
once cultivated as a garden by the celebrated Dr. 
Chauncy, formerly a pastor of the society. The build- 
ing is of brick, 70 by 75 feet, and is finished in an elegant 
style. It has a basement story w^hich is occupied for 
school rooms, vestry, &c. Over the front door is a 
marble tablet with inscriptions relative to the history of 
the church. The present sentiments of the first church 
are Unitarian. 

As early as the settlement of Mr. Cotton, the Fifth 
Day or Thursday Lectures were preached, and have 
been regularly continued ever since by the Boston Min- 
isterial Association, with the exception of about ten 
months in '75 and '76. The matrimonial contracts in 
the city are made known at these lectures by the City 
Clerk, who attends here every Thursday to publish the 
bands of matrimony. 



126 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

SECOND CHURCH. 

Old North and New Brick Churches united. 

Old North constituted, June 5, 1650.— New Brick conslituled 
May 23, 1722.— United June 27, 1779. 



Ministers of Old North. 


Settlement. 


Exit. 


Jge. 


1 John 3Iayo,* 


Nov. 9, 1655 


April 15, 1673 




2 Incr. Mather, D. D. 


May 27, 1664 


Aug. 23, 1723 


85 


3 Cotton Mather, D. D. 


May 13, 1684 


Feb. 13, 1728 


65 


4 Joshua Gee, 


Dec. 18, 1723 


May 22, 1748 


SO 


5 Samuel Mather, D. D. 


June 21,1732 


Oct. 23, 1741 t 





6 Saml. Cheekier, Jr. 


Sept. 3, 1747 


March 19, 1768 


44 


7 John Lathrop, D. D. 


May 18, 1768 


Jan. 4, 1816 


77 


New Brick. 








8 William Waldron, 


May 23, 1722 


Sept. 20, 1727 


81 


9 William Welsteed, 


March 27, 1728 


Sept. 29, 1753 


58 


10 Ellis Gray, 


Sept. 27, 1738 


Jan. 17, 1753 


37 


11 EbenV. Pemberton, 


March 6, 1754 


Sept. 15, 1777 


72 


12 Henry AVare, Jr. 


Jan. 1, 1817 


Oct. 4, 1830 


— 


13 R. Waldo Emerson, 


March 11,1829 


Oct. 28, 1832 


_ 



The Old North was located at the head of the North 
Square. The first building, erected in 1649, was de- 
stroyed by fire, Nov. 27, 1676. It was rebuilt of wood 
the next year, and then stood for a century, till it was 
pulled down by order of Gen. Howe, for fuel for the 
refugees and tories, Jan. 16, 1776. The lot of land af- 
terwards became the property of Rev. Dr. Lathrop, 
who built upon it the house fronting south on North 
Square. 

* Previously to Mr. Mayo's induction, public services had been main- 
tained by Mr Michael Powel, whom the church would have settled as 
their pastor, if the civil magistrates would have consented. Mr. Mayo 
withdrew in consequence of his age and infirmitiss, and removed to 
yarmouth, where he died. May, 1676- 

t Dr. Mather was dismissed to form another church. He died June 
27, 1785, .ait. 79. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



127 



The New Brick is the oldest meeting-house in the 
city. It was dedicated May 10, 1721. The interior 
was altered in 1828, so as to assume more of a modern 
style. It has recently undergone a thorough repair 
which gives it a very neat appearance. It stands on 
Hanover Street, on a rising ground, near the corner of 
Richmond Street. The founders of this branch of the 
society which was the seventh Congregational, origin- 
ally seceded from the fifth, or New North. The pre- 
sent sentiments of the Church are Unitarian. 



FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 

Constituted May 28, 1665. 



Ministers. 


Settlement. 


Exit. 


1 Thomas Gould, 


1665 


Oct. 1676 


2 John Miles, 


'• 




3 John Russell, 


July 28, 1679 


Dec. 24, 1680 


4 Isaac Hull, 






5 John Emblen, 


1684 


Dec. 9, 1702 


6 Ellis Callcnder, 


1708 


1728.? 


7 Elisha Callender, 


May 21,1718 


March 31,1738 


8 Jere. Condy, 


Feb. 14, 1739 


August, 1764 


9 Saml. Stillman, D. D. 


Jan. 9, 1765 


March 12,1807 


10 Joseph Clay, 


Aug. 19, 1807 


Oct. 27, 1809 


11 James M. Winchell, 


March 13,1814 


Feb. 22, 1820 


12 Fra. Wayland, D. D. 


Aug. 22, 1821 


Sept. 10,1826 


13 Cyrus P. Grosvenor, 


Jan. 24. 1 827 


Sept. 24, 1830 


14 William Haone. 


Feb. 4, 1S30 





^ge. 



70 



23 



The history of this Church is most intimately connect- 
ed with that of the progress of religious liberty in Mas- 
sachusetts. It was constituted in Charlestown, on the 
28th of May, 1665. The individuals who founded it, had 
held meetings for religious worship on Sabbath days for 
several years preceding. For thus deviating from the 
order of the established church, they were severely 



128 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

fined, and otherwise afflicted by the civil authorities. 
They then retreated to a private dwelHng on Noddle's 
Island. At that place they continued their meetings 
regularly on Sabbath days for a considerable length of 
time, when they resolved to build themselves a meeting 
house. In this they succeeded by avoiding the sus- 
picion of their opposers, until their house was pub- 
licly dedicated on the I5th of February 1679. 

The opening of this meeting house so offended the 
civil authorities, that on the 8th day of March 1680, 
they caused the doors to be nailed up, and the follow- 
ing notice to be posted on them. 

' All persons are to take notice, that by order of the 
court, the doors of this house are shut up, and that 
they are inhibited to hold any meeting, or to open the 
doors thereof without license from authority, till the 
General Court take further order, as they will answer 
the contrary at their peril.' 

Dated at Boston Sth March, 1680. 

Edward Rawson, Secretary. 

The church held public worship in the yard in front 
of the meeting house on the succeeding Sabbath, soon 
after which the Government ordered the doors to be 
again opened. But they now resolved to use more 
effectual means to crush this infant church. Many of 
its members were harrassed, fined, and imprisoned. Its 
first three pastors were at different times kept in close 
confinement. Mr. Thos. Gould the first pastor for 
maintaining his own opinions in matters of religion, 
was imprisoned for nearly three years. But these 
prejudices and fears, entertained by the friends of the 
established church, began at length to subside; and 
in the vear 1718, the feeling of toleration had made 



^1 



^w. 












Drawn ancL UTianived^ for 3ownVs HcttcrA or'^oston . 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 129 

such advances, that several of the most distinguished 
of the Congregational clergymen in Boston, assisted in 
the ordination of Mr. Elisha Callender, who was the 
sixth Pastor settled over this church. 

Their first meeting-house, was erected by the side of 
what was then called the mill-pond. This spot is now 
covered by a block of brick buildings, on the north side 
of Stillman Street, between Salem and Pond Streets. 
This house stood until the year 1771, when it was re- 
placed by a new one of wood, which was afterwards 
considerably enlarged. The last meeting held in this 
house was on the 14th June, 1829. In 1828, the Church 
and Society erected their present meeting house, at 
the corner of Union and Hanover Streets, which was 
dedicated June 18, 1829. 

The vestry room which is in the basement story, is 
55 feet in length and 38 in width, and is furnished with 
settees sufficient to accommodate 300 or 400 persons. 
The floor of the house above the basement, which con- 
tains 106 pews, is gained by an easy flight of stairs. — 
The pews are lined with crimson, and stuffed simi- 
lar to a sofa, and furnished with carpets, cushions, 
book-racks, &c. The ends of the pews are finished 
with scroll arms, and the doors are several inches 
lower than the backs of the pews, so that they appear 
like rows of sofas in perfect uniformity. 

The pulpit is of mahogany, neatly finished, and 
surmounted by a large crimson silk damask curtain. 
Immediately in front of the pulpit, and connected with 
it, is the Baptistery ; the top of which is even with that 
of the pews. It is so situated, that every person in 
the house may see the ordinance performed when seated 
in their pews. 

12 



180 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

The celling is a regular arch, having a spring of 
about six feet, the entire length of the house. From 
the centre is suspended the cut glass chandelier. Two 
sky-lights, thirty-six feet in circumference, one between 
the chandalier and pulpit, and the other on the opposite 
side, admits the light through the ceiling. 

In the centre of each circular sash in the ceiling 
is a swinging sash, nine feet in circumference, which 
is opened for the purpose of ventillation. — The house is 
crowned by a handsome tower, which contains a bell 
of about 1600 lbs weight. 

That part of the basement story which fronts on 
Hanover Street is fitted into five handsome stores, 
and rent for something over .^1500 per annum. This 
house and the land cost $44,000. 

OLD SOUTH CHURCH.. 

Constituted, May 12, 1669. 



Mimsteis. 


Settlement. 


Exit, 


Age- 


1 Thomas Thatcher, 


Feb. 16, 1670 


Oct. 15, 1678 


53 


2 Samuel Willard, 


April 10, 1678 


Sept 12, 1707 


66 


3 Eben'r. Pemberton, 


Aug. 28, 1700. 


Feb. 13, 1717 


45 


4 Jos. Sewall, D. D. 


Sept. 16, 1713 


June 27, 1769 


30 


5 Thomas Prince, 


Oct. 1, 1718 


Oct. 22. 1758 


72 


6 Alexander Gumming, 


Feb. 25, 1761. 


Aug. 25, 1763 


37 


7 Samuel Blair, D. D 


Nov. 19, 1766 


Oct. 10, 1769 * 


— , 


8 John Bacon, 


Sept. 25, 1771 


Feb. 8, 17751 


— . 


9 John Hunt, 


Sept. 25, 1771 


Dec. 20, 1775 


31 


10 Jose. Eckley, D. D. 


Oct. 27, 1779 


April 20, 1779 


61 


11 Joshua Huntington, 


May 18, 1808 


Sept. 11, 1819 


34 


12 B. B. Wisner, D. D. 


Feb. 21, 1821 


Nov 12,1832 





It is somewhat remarkable that the Old South as well 
s the First and the first Baptist Churches were all or- 

* Rev. Dr, Blair retired to Pennsylvania, 
t Rev. Mr. Bacon died, Nov. 1820, Mt. 83, 



PICl^URE OF BOSTON. 131 

ganized, at their outset, in Charlestown. Although the 
founders of the Old South were CongregationaHsts, 
there was sufficient informahty in their gathering, to 
cause a public proclamation against them, when they 
undertook to set up their house. No decisive mea- 
sures were taken to prevent them, and they therefore 
went forward with their building. It was of wood, on 
the spot now occupied by the Society, at the corner of 
Milk and Washington Streets. That house was taken 
down, March 3, 1729, and on April 26, 1730, the new 
house, which is the present building, was opened for 
public worship. The inside of it was entirely destroyed 
by the British dragoons, who took possession of it, Oct. 
27, 1775, for the purpose of a riding school. After the 
siege was raised, the Old South people improved the 
Stone Chapel till their house was put into repair. It is 
probably the most capacious house in the city, and is 
the one selected for the celebration of religious services 
on the anniversary of the General Election and Inde- 
pendence. Sentiments of the Old South Church, Cal- 
vinistic. 



king's chapel. 

Episcopal Society formed, June 15, 1686. 

Jge. 



31inUtcrs. 


Settlement.. 


Exit. 


t .Robert Ratcliffe, 


1686 




2 Robert Clarke, 


1686 




3 Sam'l Myks, 


June 29, 1689 


March 1, 1728 


4 George Hatton, 


1693 


July, 1696 


5 Christopher. Bridge, 


March 5, 1699 


Oct. 1, 1706 


6 Henry Harris, 


April, 1709 


Oct. 6, 1729 


7 Roger Price, 


June 25, 1729 


Nov. 21, 1746 


8 Thos. Harward, 


April, 1731 


April 15, 1736 


8 Addjngt. Davenport, 


April 15, 1737 


May 8, 1740 



132 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



10 Stephen Roe, 


1741 


1744 


n Henry Caner, D. D. 


April 11, 1747 


March 17,1776 


12 Charles Brockwell, 


1747 


Aug. 20, 1755 


13 John Troutbeck, 


1755 


November, 1755 



After the revolution, the remaining proprietors of the 
Chapel adopted a Unitarian Liturgy, which they con- 
tinue to use, while they retain also some of the forms of 
the Church of England. They have had one Rector 
and two associate ministers, namely : — 

14 Jame? Freeman, D. D. Oct. 20, 1782 

15 Samuel Carj, Jan. 1, 1809 Oct. 22, 1815 GO 

16 Fr. \V. P. Greenwood, Aug. 29, 1824 

Rev. Dr. Freeman is the oldest surviving clergyman 
in the city. He commenced Reader on the day above 
named, and received ordination as Rector Nov. 18, 
1787. The first Chapel, founded in 1688, was a wood- 
en building, of much smaller dimensions than the pre- 
sent, which was opened for divine service, Aug. 21, 
1754. 

The exterior of this edifice is extremely plain, being 
entirely of unhammered stone. The tower is ornament- 
ed by a colonnade of large wooden pillars, and the 
whole presents the appearance of massy grandeur suit- 
ed to distinguish in former days the place of worship 
for the pubhc functionaries. In the interior, the Gov- 
ernor's pew was formerly distinguished above the rest, 
but was taken down a few years since. The style of 
architecture is of the Corinthian order. There are sev- 
eral monumental marbles, which add to the interest with 
which the church is visited. It is now the only house 
in which the old fashion of square pews is retained.* 

* For a more and full account of this Church the reader is referred 
to Rev. F. W, P. Greenwood's inlertsting history of the ' King's 
Chapel.' 



tncTURE OF BOSTON. 183 



QUAKERS MEETING. 



li'rom the year 1664 to 1808, the society of Friends 
lield regular meetings in Boston. They built the first 
brick meeting-house in the town, in Brattle Street, and 
another of similar materials, in Congress Street. The 
former was sold in 1708, the latter was erected prior to 
1717, and stood till April, 1825, when the building was 
sold and demolished,* Connected with this house was a 
burial ground, in which the dead of the society were 
interred. Their remains were removed to Lynn in the 
summer of 1826. The land was sold in 1827, and the 
stone building now rented for the Boston Type Foun- 
dry, opposite the west end of Lindall Street, occupies 
the site of the old church. The Society has since 
erected a very neat stone edifice in Milton Place. The 
number of Friends resident in Boston are very few, and 
consequently meetings are only held here occasionally. 

BRATTLE STREET CHURCH. 
Constituted, Dec, 12, 1699, 

Ministers. Settlement. Exit. -4^c. 

1 Benjamin Colman, D. D. Aug. 4, 1699 Aug. 29, 1747 73 

2 William Cooper, May 23, 1716 Dec. 13, 1743 50 

3 Samuel Cooper, May 22, 1746 Dec. 20, 1783 58 

* At this period fears were entertained that the Society would be- 
come extinct in Boston, as did the French Protestant Church, 
ivhich originated here in 1686. As a matter of record, it should be 
stated that this society built a brick church, in School Street, on land 
adjoining the Universal meeting-house on the east; had two pastors — 
Rev. Paul Daille, who died May 20, 1715, MU 66, and Rev. Andrew Le 
Mercier. The society was discontinued in 1748, and sold their house 
to a new congregation. Mr. LeMercier lived till March 31, 1764, and 
ritfained to the 72d year of hie a^e, 

12* 



134 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

4 Peter Thacher Jan. 12, 1785 Dec. 16, 1802 51 

5 J. S. BuckQiinister, Jan. 30, 1805 June 9, 1812 28 

6 Edward Everett, Feb. 9, 1814 March 5, 1815 — 

7 John G. Palfrey, June 17, 1813 May 22, 1830 

" This society originated in a desire, on the part of its 
founders, to extend the privilege of voting in the choice 
of a minister to every baptized adult, who contributed 
to the maintenance of worship, instead of limiting it, as 
it had hitherto been in other churches, to the commu- 
nicants alone. They adopted some other customs, at 
variance with general usage, and published a manifesto 
or declaration of their principles and designs, which 
gained them the name of the manifesto church. Their 
* pleasant new-built church ' was erected on Brattle's 
close, and opened for worship Dec. 24, 1699. It was a 
wooden building, with window frames of iron. It was 
taken down in May, and the corner stone of the present 
building laid in June, 1772, and the house opened July 
25, 1773. 

Governors Hancock and Bowdoin were liberal bene- 
factors of this society. The name of the former was in- 
scribed on one of the rustic quoins at the south-west 
corner of the building. The British soldiery defaced it, 
and the stone remains in the condition in which they 
left it. A similar inscription, unmutilated, appears on 
one of the rustic quoins at the south-west corner of the 
tower ; and on one in the north-west corner, the name 
of Dr. John Greenleaf appears, who, with Gov. Bowdoin, 
advanced the money for refitting the church, it having 
been improved as a barrack, during the seige. A shot, 
which was sent from the American army, at Cambridge, 
struck the tower on the night preceding the evacuation 
of the town. It was picked up and preserved, and is 



riCTURE OF BOSTON. 135 

now fastened in the spot where it struck. Gen. Gage's 
head quarters were in the house opposite. 

Brattle Street, church adopts the Unitarian sen- 
'timents. 



NEW KORTH CHURCH. 

Constituted, May 5, I7l4. 



Ministers. 


Setthjuvnt. 


Exit. 


Age. 


1 John Webb, 


Oct. 20, 1714 


April 16, 1750 


21 


2 Peter Thaclier, 


Jan, 28, 1720 


Feb, 26, 1739 


61 


3 Andrew Eliot, D. D. 


April 14, 1712 


Sept, 13, 1778 


59 


4 John Eliot, D. D. 


Nov. 3, 1779 


Feb. 14, 1813 


59 


5 Francis Parkman, 


Dec. 8, 1813. 







The project of forming a new society at the north 
part of the town originated with seventeen substantial 
mechanics, in the winter of 1712. By the 5th of May, 
1714, they had erected a convenient meeting house on 
the lot at the corner of Clark and Hanover Streets, 
where their present place of worship stands. This last 
was dedicated May 2, 180-1. It is the second (the Ro- 
man Catholic being the first) of the modern built 
churches. Its exterior is in a bold and commanding style. 
The front is decorated with stone pilasters of a compos- 
, ite order ; a series of attic pilasters over them ; a tow- 
er and cupola, terminated with a handsome vane, above 
100 feet from the foundation. The inside is a square of 
72 feet : two ranges of Doric columns under the gal- 
leries and Corinthian above them, support the ceiling, 
which rises in an arch of moderate elevation in the 
centre : the whole well adapted for sight and sound. 

This church is considered to be Unitarian in senti- 
ment, and with the Second Church in its neighborhood. 



136 riCTURE or BOSTON. 

with which it is associated, has recently adopted a brief 
and expressive form of church covenant, free from 
any pecuUarities of controverted doctrine, and which 
was in use in the Old North Church, as early as the 
days of Mayo, its first minister and of Dr. Increase 
Mather, a century and an half ago. 



NKW SOUTH CHURCH. 





Constituted April 15, 


1719. 




Ministers. 




Hctth.mcnt. 


Exit. 


Jgc. 


1 Samuel Cheekley, 




April 15, 1719, 


Dec, 1, 1769 


73 


2 Pcnuel Bo wen,*" 




April 28, 1766 


May 12, 1772 


— 


3 Joseph Howe, 




May 19, 1773 


Aug. 25, 1775 


28 


4 Oliver Everett, 




Jan. 2, 1782 


May, 26, 1792 


_ 


5 J. T. Kirkland, D. 


D. 


Feb. 5, 1794 


Nov. 1810 


— 


6 Samuel C. Thaclier, 


May 15, 1811 


Jan. 2, 1818 


32 


7 F. W. P. Greenwood, 


Oct. 21, 1818 


Dec. 1820. 


— 


8 Alexander Young, 




Jan. 19, 1825 







The first meeting on the subject of forming this So- 
ciety was held in 1715, at the Bull Tavern, then a pub- 
lic house of note, and now remaining, one of the last 
relics of ancient architecture, at the bottom of Sum- 
mer Street. The place they selected for their meeting- 
house was the lot on the angle between Summer and 
Bedford Streets. It seems to have been a town lot 
which our forefathers intended for that purpose, from 
their having given it the name of Church Green. The 
town granted it to the subscribers for erecting the 
house, which they finished and dedicated, Jan. 8, 1717. 

The present church occupies the same spot : it was 
dedicated, Dec. 29, 1814. It was built of the best 

* Rev. President Kirkland, and Messrs. Bowen, Everett, and Green- 
wood resigned. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 137 

Chelmsford Granite and of the following dimensions. — 
The body of the building is octagonal, formed in a 
square of seventy-six feet diameter, four sides being 
forty-seven feet, and four smaller sides twenty feet each, 
three large windows are in two of the principal sides, 
and one in each of the angles, and in the rear. The 
height is thirty-four feet, and finished with a Doric 
cornice of bold projection. Tbe porch is of equal ex- 
tent with one of the sides, and is projected sixteen feet, 
in front of which is a portico of four fluted columns of 
Grecian Doric : this portico is crowned with a pedi- 
ment, surmounted by a plain attic. 

A tower rises from the centre of the attic, which in- 
cludes the belfry. The first story of the steeple is an 
octagon, surrounded by eight columns and a circular 
pedestal and entablature ; an attic, above this, gradually 
diminishing by three steps or gradins, supports a sec- 
ond range of Corinthian columns, with an entablature 
and balustrade ; from this, the ascent in a gradual dim- 
inution, forms the base of the spire, which is crowned 
with a ball and vane. The entire height is one hun- 
dred and ninety feet. 

Inside the house, the ceiling is supported by four 
Ionic columns connected above their entablature by 
four arches of moderate elevation ; in the angles, pen- 
dants, or fans rising from a circular horizontal ceiling, 
decorated with a centre flower. Between the arches 
and walls are grains springing from the cornice, sup- 
ported by Ionic pilasters between the windows. The 
galleries rest upon small columns, and are finished in 
the front with balustrades. The pulpit is richly built 
of mahogany, supported by Ionic and Corinthian col- 
umns. The floor of the house contains one hundred 
and eighteen pews, and the galleries thirty-two, be- 



138 PICl^URE OF BOSTON. 

sides the organ loft, and seats for the orphan children of 
the Female Asylum. 

In constructing this house, an attempt has been made 
to unite the massive simplicity of the Grecian temple 
with the conveniences of the Christian church. The 
hold proportions of the portico, cornices and windows, 
and the simplicity of the attic, give the impression of 
classical antiquity ; while the tower and steeple are in- 
ventions, comparatively, of a modern date. It is the 
first in which the modern style of long windows wa^ 
introduced. 

The Unitarian sentiments are maintained by this' 
church. 

CHRIST CHURCH. 

Episcopal Society formed, Sept. 5, 1722, 

Rectors. Settlement. Exit, Age, 

1 Timothy Cutler, D. D. Dec. 29, 1793 Aug, 17, 1766- 

2 James Greaton, 1759 Aug. 31, 1767 — 

3 Mather Byles, jr. D. D. April 22, 1768 April, 1775 — 

4 Stephen Lewis, August, 1778 1785 -^ 

5 William Montague, April, 1786 Blay, 1792 — 

6 Wm. Walter, D. D. May 19, 1792 Dec. 5, 1300 64 

7 Samuel Haskell, May, 1801 Sept, 1803 — 

8 Asa Eaton, D. D. Oct. 23, 1803 May, 1829 

9 Wm. Croswell, June 24, 1829 

This church is situated in Salem Street, near Copp's 
Hill. Its elevation makes it the most conspicuous ob- 
ject in North Boston. The corner stone was laid with 
religious ceremonies by Rev. Mr. Myles, April 22, 
1723, and the house was dedicated on the 29th of De- 
cember, the same year. 

Christ Church is 70 feet long, 50 wide and 35 high ; 
the walls are two feet and a half thick, the steeple's 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 139 

area is 24 feet square. The brick tower is 78 feet high ; 
the spire above is 97 feet ; in all 175 feet. Under the 
church is the Cemetery containing 33 tombs. 

The interior was greatly improved by alterations 
made a few years since. Formerly there was a centre 
aisle, which is now closed, and the space converted into 
pews. The large altar window is closed, and the chan- 
•cel is enriched by an altar piece. The paintings con- 
taining the Lord's prayer, select texts of Scripture, and 
the last supper, are from the pencil of an artist of this 
city, and are deservedly admired. The flues of the 
stoves are inclosed by pillasters, supporting an entabla- 
ture and cornice over the chancel, on the frieze of which 
is inscribed ' This is none other than the house of God, 
and this is the Gate of Heaven.' Above this is a paint- 
ing, the Descent of the Holy Spirit, finely executed. — 
At the east end of the church, on the side of the chan- 
cel, is a monument to the memory of Washington, (the 
first ever erected to his memory in this country) with a 
bust well executed by an Italian artist. The old stee- 
ple which w as considered one of the most elegant in 
the Union, had suffered for the want of timely repairs, 
and was overthrown by the violent October gale of 1804. 
The liberality of the citizens furnished four thousand 
dollars for the erection of a new one, which was com- 
pleted according to a model furnished by Charles Bul- 
finch, Esq. in which the proportions and symmetry of 
the old one are carefully preserved. 

This church is furnished with the only peal of bells 
in the city. It was a custom in former days to chime 
them several nights previous to Christmas, and to ring 
the old year out and the new year in, most merily upon 
them. They are inscribed with the following 



no rUTUKi: Ol' lU)STO.N. 

Mottos and Devices. 

1st Bell.—' This peal of eight Bells is the gift of a 
number of generous persons to Christ Church, in Bos- 
ton, N. E. anno 1744, A. H.' 

2d Hell — ' This church was foumltMl in the year 1723, 
Timothy Cutler, D. D. the tirst Rector,* A. R. 1744.' 

3d Bell, — ' We are the tirst ring of Bells cast for the 
British Empire in North America, A. K. 1744.' 

4th Bell. — ' God preserve the Church of England. 
1744.' 

5th Bell. — ' William Shirley, Esq. Governor of the 
Massachusetts Bay, in New-England, anno 1744.' 

6th Bell. — ' The subscription for these Bells was be- 
gun by John Hammock and Robert Temple, church 
wardens, anno 1743 ; completed by Robert Jenkins and 
John (Jould, church wardens, anno 1744.' 

7th Bell. — ' Since Generosity has opened our mouths, 
our tongues shall ring aloud its praise. 1744.' 

8th Bell. — ' Abel Rudhall, of Gloucester, cast us all, 
anno 1744.' 

Connected with this church is a Sund \y School, com- 
menced in June, 1815, The average attendance of 
children is about 200. 

The doctrines ot the Church of England are advocat- 
ed in this church without alteration. 

* A chair, which this Rev. Divine brought from England, and which 
the venerated Dean Berkley (at the sale of whose effects it was purchas- 
ed by Dr. Cutler,) said was modelled after the form of the Ourule 
Jb^dilisi iu Rome, is now in the possession of a gentleman in this city» 
It is more than 100 years since Dr C. bought it. 



PICTURE OF nORTOIN. 141 

KKDEnAL STUEET CHURCrf. 
[rish Presbyteriau, 1727.— Congregational, 178G. 



Ministers. 




Setllemcnl. 


Exit. 


Age. 


1 John Moorhead, 




March 31, 1730 


Dec, 2, 1773 


70 


2 Kobeit Annan, 




17S3 


1786 


t 


3 Jer. IJfelknai), I). D. 




Ajuil 4, 1787 


Jniiit 20,1793 


64 


4 J. S. Po|>kin, D. I). 




July 10, 17^9 


Kov. 23, 1202 


— 


6 Wn,. K. Ohanninjj, D. 


D 


. June 1, 1803 






C Ezra tililes Gannett, 




June 30, 1824 







This society was originally composed of a umaber of 
Presbyterian families from the north of Ireland. They 
purchased a convenient lot at the corner of Bury Street, 
(now corrupted to iJerry,) and Long lane (now called 
Federal Street,) and altered a barn, which stood there, 
into a house of worship, wliich sufficed the wants of the 
society till theii- means enabled them to raise a new and 
convenient edifice, in 1744. At that time they were 
in a flourishing condition; but after Mr. Moorhead's de- 
cease, they probably declined, and eventually embrac- 
ed the practice of our Congregational order, Aug. 6, 
1780. Their lirst pastor under the new regime was as 
conspicuous lor his learning and talents, as the original 
founder, Mr Moorhead, had been lor his eccentric- 
ities. 

This church was the place of meeting foj the Massa- 
chusetts Convention, when they decided on the adop- 
tion of the United States Constitution. It is from this 
circumstance that the street derives its name. The 
present edifice is a fine specimen of Saxon (iothic, de- 
signed by' Charles Buliinch Esq, who has since held the 
station of principal architect over the public buildings 
at Washington. It was dedicated Nov. 23, 1809. The 
architecture is admirable for its uniformity and the sym- 
13 



U4 rum UK OK iUK-irv>\ 

^xt that !ityl«^ oi buiUUuis In this motiwjvUv. 

The miuistt^i"* lU" thu< cUun*h ajv vleoivUnl tHiv^'atos vvl' 

Mi^lKS $TKVt.t- i-HVKCM. 

His o\<vlU>uoy Jvm*th*u Bt^lohor, GovtTUW of Mas- 
s.*ohust^tts, iu \7StO. vNvuvt'ytHl tho Uiuvl vvn which this 
hvHist? of wen-ship stAiKls^tv^ NV i». Kaine. Ks\\. aiul <>thers. 
vui i\uultiivut that they .vhouKl b\uKl iherrHnt. Aoc<xnl- 
iii^ly they ertH^ttsl a iut?eu«ij housv^ 40 tW^t by St\ with 
a s<i?if>jxU^ — »t was tiiiishevl aiuUitHhoateU. June IS. 17S5. 
IVixxjj eatirely ot" wvxxK it was vlostr\^ytHl h\ the jtreat 
fire ^>f ApHl 3l\ n>7. lu 17HS it wits rebuilt, also of 
wvxxl. ami taken down iu ISIO. to make way tl\r the 
pivs^nxt tHl^ee, which is oi brick, ami was dtHlk'attHl 
Jaiv. SK ISU. It is 79 1-3 teet by 7«J. e\ch»«ive of the 
tower. It iwixtaius ISv^ |>ewsow the lower tKxvr. ami S8 
iw the gallery, bevsivles the seats fcrthe chv>iiv-the stee- 
ple is IJm teet hi^h. The materials of the ixlvl hvH»st> 
werx^ solvl to a scx'iety iu Weymouth, where it was jnit 
up anew. aUm,^t in its orii'iwal tv>rm. It was very ele^ 
5tiiu\l tor a woollen buiKUuij. ami a draw in^ of it is prt>- 
serve^l in the M assachusetts M a^eixte tor 17^. * Itollis 
Streift i^hureh is l^ivitariau in sentiment. 



ri</JIJlh Ol IJOh/O.s M« 



TftiMrry t:tttim.n. 



:j WiUiH,,, W»)(.-/, />, I) July 'a, iV'A M»i'l> /'/, I77«J 

-« «;»«(.«<;) I'*»k«rf, h. It ,71*7 l!>, J??/* /M/;, '^ /fJ'H </ 



oi Ho: (Uiinh oi Kti%\'4ui\ H4',i',tiin Ut Unvf, \ut:rtv>tp4u\ rnft- 
I'lly, iiiU'.r t\tt- iitU'fi^iuriuttt oi iU*', toynl f^ovtinmnuiiUtUt 
(1x5 r,ol<;fiy, iitnici Uk', <]t'>it'\t'.r of KH^l, '!'>»<; tcuMtttt a#- 
Hii/^fU'.il ittf iSn; tuKrXuiu oi ilUnnt ('Ainrr.U, wnn, fhat Ui<j 
<in$l)>:l W'iM not hirf(<'/ t'uou^U Ut t'Ott\n\u nM iU'di wouW 
» /<f/i<'- 1/> if ; n»i/l Oj<; i'uHl nU:\t UtwuriU lit'', iornmlutii of 
'/ riniiy (^hiii'<'.fi w«tr<; Uk^tfi hy rt'/AMUtt iiinl lUf, i:Un\H',\ 
wJd full, ;»»i/J iioiii'.wH Ut \n', (>oiij(fit, f/y n«!»v f4iiut',ri* — 
1 \>\n w-iM ifi J 72H, TJx; MulMrjipUoti niUJ'A'j'Aiit^, itiU',r intuttt 
«\cAny,',tr.inii't:U w'au iUi',KU-A,nui\ i\rni*n,iM\iU-A H';|;t. /i5, 
\TA7>. If, wjjwUk; f;tiil'lJnj(of vvhW^li itiliHwiiii/^ wan divert 
i/j our /irt»(, c.AiUoft, niit\ whirh HW/^fi/i lill 1H2X, 'I'UoufcU 
\\% i'.%U:\\itf wan \i-h% iiiifKt^.iufi, \K:itii^ oi wo^A, Jl ir;** 
/nrirc Mj<f»ly orn',iun',uSt'A wifhio llian AifuM utiy olUcr 
'Untr.U iti \in'. rUy. 'i'Utt 'I'nuUnrMi tiociritutu hnvc 
4\wn.yA \itu:ti \>rt','tn:\ti'A \n',r<;, 
'I'Ut-. corrn',r hUhh'. oi t\ni uhw ctiifint', (wttiuU (Hxuplan 

I'm; hifi; of lli<; HUCAttUi \mlU\\u^) Hi iUh I'JtrUKT oi liawUiy 
:iinl Hunnucr Htn;«d»» wm ln'u\ H*'.ji>t. 15, IH2H, l>y iinr 
iU-.v. Dr. (inni'nu;r, t\n; n:<:U>r oi lite t.linrr.ii, wjifi ap- 

• >:„„„,, „u,l lu>h>,f. :l w V f. r.*y, OtX, 31, MiVZ. 



144 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

propriate ceremonies. A silver plate, bearing the fol- 
lowing inscription, (with a number of the Episcopal 
Watchman, and a Centinel, of April 12, 1828, containing 
the most important chronological memoranda of the 
parish, and several pieces of the current silver coin of 
the United States) was enclosed in a glass case, with 
envelopes of tin and of lead, and deposited under the 
stone : 

TRINITYCHURCH. 

Built A. D. 1734. Built A. D. 1828. 

Rt. Rev. Alexander Viets Griswold, D. D. Bishop of the Eastern 

Diocess. 
Rev. John Sylvester John Gardiner, D. D. Rector. 
Rev. George Washington Doane, A. M. Assistant Minister. 
Edward Hutchinson Robbins, jun. Esq. and George Brinly, Esq. 

Wardens. 
John Trecothick Aphthorp, Esq. George Brinley, Esq. John Hub- 
bard, Esq. William Dehon, Esq. Joseph Head, jun. Esq. Wil- 
liam DavisSohier, Esq. and Edward Hutchinson Robbins, jun. Esq. 
Building- Committee. 

The pldii of the Church was designed by George Watson 

Brimmer, Esq. 

The Corner Stone w«s laid September 15th, 1828. 

Ao|a TW Qs'jj. 

The materials which are of Quincy granite, far sur- 
pass any which we have ever seen ; and the founda- 
tion and upper walls, for beauty, strength, and solidity, 
we are bold to say, are not equalled in this country. 



WEST CHURCH. 
Constituted January 3, 1737 

Ministers. Settlcme^it, 

1 William Hooper, May 18, 1737 

2 Jona. Mayhew, D. D. June 17, 1747 
S Simeon Howard, D,l). May6, 1767 
4 Charles Lowell, D.D. Jan. 1,1806. 



Exit. 
Nov. 19, 1746 


^g'. 


July 8, 1766 
Aug. 13, 1804 


46 
71 




a®a.IL2S §5?2E.Ig2SSo 



rgWE2S'^ (SaHBIE.'BIlIo 







nCTURE OF BOSTON. 145 

The formation of this church, it is said, was owing to 
a desire on the part of its founders, to enjoy the ministe- 
rial services of the Rev. Mr. Hooper, who became their 
first pastor; although he probably had not given any 
positive assurance that he would accept the office, for 
the New Brick Church invited him to become colleague 
with Mr. Welsteed as late as Dec. 26, 1736. Mr. H. 
was a native of Scotland, a man of more than ordinary 
powers of mind, of a noble aspect, an eloquent and pop- 
ular preacher. The frame of their meeting-house, with 
the tower thereof, was erected early in September, 1736. 
Mr. Hooper was unanimously chosen to the pastoral of- 
fice, on the day when the church was constituted, and 
ordained on the 18th of May, 1737. He contined in the 
office a little over nine years, when he left this society, 
and became rector of Trinity church after receiving 
Episcopal ordination. His successor. Dr. Mayhew, was 
one of the brightest luminaries of the church, and fore- 
most among the boldest friends of civil and religious lib- 
erty. It is doubtful whether even the ardent devot- 
edness of James Otis did more to kindle the fire of the 
American Revolution, than did the zeal and arguments 
of Dr. Mayhew. He died a few weeks after delivering 
his discourse on the repeal of the Stamp Act. 

In 1806, immediately after the ordination of Dr. Low- 
ell, measures were taken towards erecting a new meet- 
ing-house. In April, the old one was taken down, and 
the present one completed and dedicated Nov. 27th of 
the same year. This building unites neatness with ele- 
gance. It is seventy-five feet long, and seventy-four 
feet wide; the walls are thirty-four feet high, the porch 
is seventeen by thirty-six feet, the walls of which are 
seventy-three feet high, and finished after the Doric 
/)rder. On the porch is erected a cupola twenty-nine 



146 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

feet high, which is finished in the Ionic order. The 
pulpit is of mahogany and is thought not to be surpassed 
in beauty by any in the city. The ceiUng has a dome 
in its centre, forty-two feet in its greatest diameter. 

The horizontal part of the ceiling is ornamented with 
pannels, fans, &c. The lower floor is spacious and con- 
venient, and contains 112 pews. To its architectural 
embellishments an elegant clock is added, the donation 
of the late John Derby, Esq. 

Under the Church is a vestry and a large and very 
excellent room for the Sunday School, and for the parish 
and Sunday School libraries. The Sabbath School at- 
tached to this Church was the first institution of the 
kind in New England. It was commenced in 1812, and 
its founders have had the satisfaction of seeing their ex- 
ample followed by most other churches in the city. The 
music in this church is distinguished for its chasteness and 
skill. It was much indebted for its excellence to the 
late lamented Wm. H. Eliot, Esq. a devoted friend to 
the parish. 

This church is congregational. It receives the Scrip- 
tures as the only rule of faith and practice. Its present 
minister stands aloof from the parties which divide the 
Christian world, and adopts no other name than Chris- 
tian to designate his faith. 



SECOND 


BAPTIST CHURCH. 




Cons 


;itituted July 27, 


1743. 




MinisUrs. 


Settlements 


Exit. 


Age. 


1 Ephraim Bownd, 


Sept. 7, 1743 


June 18, 1765 


46 


2 John Davis, 


Sept. 9, 1770 


July 1772 


— 


3 Isaac Skillman, D. D. 


Oct. S, 1773 


Oct. 7, 1787 


— 



PICTURE OF BOSTON, 147 



4 Thomas Gair, 


April 23, 1788 


April 27, 1790 


35 


5 Thomas Baldwin, D. D. 


Nov 11, 1790 


Aug. 29, 1825 


72 


6 James D. Knowles, 


Dec. 28, 1825 


OcU 7, 1832 


_ 


7 Baron Slow, 


Nov. 15, 1832 







The Second Baptist Church was originally formed, 
July 27, 1743, by three brethren of the First Baptist 
Church, who seceded in consequence of their disap- 
probation of the sentiments of the Rev. Mr. Condy, then 
their pastor. These brethren for a while assumed the 
name of the First Baptist Church, but the causes of dis- 
content having; subsided, their successors have long 
borne the numerical title which the order of time as- 
signed to them. This society held their Lord^'s-day 
meetings for public worship, at the dwelling-house of 
Mr. James Bownd, in Sheaf Street, near Copp's Hill, 
from Oct. 3, 1742, until June 3, 1745, when they removed 
to Mr. Proctor's school-house, and there met until 
Lord's-dajs March 15, 1746, when the first sermon was 
preached in their new meeting-house, which stood on 
the spot now occupied bj^ the Church. It was a wooden 
building of 45 by 33 feet, finished in a plain but decent 
style. Near the head of the broad aisle was prepared a 
font or cistern, in which their candidates were immersed 
— it continued in use for more than forty years, having 
been enlarged in 1788 and again in 1797. In 1810 that 
building was removed to make room for the present 
edifice, which is of brick, 80 feet by 75, exclusive of a 
tower 38 feet by 18. The dedication took place Jan. 1, 
1811. The sentiments of this Church have always been 
Trinitarian. 

REV. SAMUEL MATHER's CHURCH 

Was composed of a number of the members of the Old 
North, at which he was an associate minister with Mr. 



148 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Gee. It commenced in 1741, and continued in exist- 
ence, under his care, till his death, which occurred 
June 27, 1785.* After that the Society was broken up, 
and their meeting-house was sold to the 

FIRST UNIVERSALIST CHURCH, 

Organized ill 1785, 

Ministers. Settlement. Exit. jfg-e. 

1 John Murray, Oct. 24, 1773 Sept. 3, 1815 74 

2 Edward JVI'tchell, Sept. 12, I8l0 Oct. 6, 1311 — 

3 Paul Dean, Aug. 19, 1813 April 6, 1823 — 

4 Sebastian Streeter, May 13, 1824 

Mr. Murray, the first minister of this Society, is sup- 
posed to have been the first preacher of the doctrine of 
Universal Salvation, unreservedly, in America. He 
commenced in the vicinity of New- York, in the year 
1770, arrived in Boston on the 26th, and preached his 
first sermon here on the 30th of October, 1733. It was 
not, however, till 1785, that his followers acquired 
numbers sufficient to induce them to provide themselves 
with a separate house for pubhc worship. The disso- 
lution of Dr. Mather's society afforded them a good 
opportunity, which they embraced, and purchased 
the house which he had occupied, at the corner of Ben- 
net and Hanover Streets. The same building still re- 
mains, having been, however, several times altered 
and enlarged, so that it will now accommodate a nu- 
merous congregation. It is the last of the ancient 
wooden churches. 

* For an account of this and of the Rev. Andrew Croswell's church 
which existed from 1748 to 1785, occupying the Old French Church, 
and for a notice of the Sandenianin Society, which coinn»enced in 
]764, and continued its meetings till 1823, we refer to Dr, Snow's 
History of Boston pp. 229, 231, 256. 








31<A2 'i 2j-J ®2'IE2BI13' . ■^ S A S 21 & IL 2 S . 




J)rutm MuZ Kut^raved Utt £owen.'s Ticture of£osti?n-. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 149 

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH. 

Mass first celebrated, November 22, 1788. 

Age. 





Ministers. 


Settlemtnt. 


Exit. 




Rev. M. La Poterie, 


1788 






" Louis de Rousselet, 








« John Thayer, 


June 10, 1790 






" F. A. Matignon, D, D. 


Aug. 20, 1792 


S'ept, 19, 1818 


Rl. 


Rev. John L. de Cheverus, 


Oct. 3, 1796 


Sept. 26, 1823 




" Philip Larisey, 


May, 1818 


July, 1821 




" Patrick Byrne, 


March 18, 1820 July 11, 1830 




" William Taylor, D. D 


. April, 1821 


Dec. 17, 1525 


Rt, 


, Rev. Benedict Fenwick, 


May 10, 1825 






" James Fitton, 


Dec, 23, 1827 


July 30, 1830 




« William Wiley, 


Dec. 23, 1827 


Sept. 19, 1831 




« William Tyler, 


May, 3, 1829 






" T. J. O'Flagherty 


Sept, 6, 1829 






" Michael Healv, 


July 10,1331 





The first Roman Catholic Congregation was assem- 
bled in 1784, from among the few French and Irish 
then resident here, by the Abbe La Poterie, a Chap- 
lain in the French navy. In the year 1788, they ob- 
tained possession of the old French Church, in School 
Street. Mass was celebrated in it, Nov. 22, 1788. 
M. La Poterie was succeeded by M. Rousselet, and af- 
terwards by John Thayer, who was a native of Boston, 
and had taken orders as Catholic Missionary. Rev. 
Mr. Thayer commenced his mission here June 10, 1790. 
In 1792, the Rev. Dr. Francis Anthony Matignon ar- 
rived in Boston, and was joined by the Rev. John Chev- 
erus, in 1796. In 1810, the Rev. John Cheverus was 
consecrated- Bishop of the Roman Catholic Church, for 
the Diocess of Boston, comprising all the New England 
States. Under him and his Vicar General, the venera- 
ble and learned Dr. Matignon, the Congregation increas- 



150 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

ed in numbers and respectability, and with some aid 
from Protestant friends erected the Church of the 
Holy Cross in Frankhn place. It was consecrated on 
the 29th of Sept. 1803. Bishop Cheverus was recalled 
to France in 1823, and is now the Archbishop of Bor- 
deaux. The Rt. Rev. Benedict Fenwick succeeded 
as Bishop of Boston, and together w ith the Very Rev. 
T. J. O'Flagherty, the Rev. Wm. Tyler, and the Rev. 
Michael Healy, has now the charge of the Church 
here. 

Since the arrival of Bishop Fenwick, the Church of 
the Holy Cross has received considerable additions. 
Its present length is 115 feet, and greatest width 72 
feet. Besides the above, a neat subterraneous Chapel 
has been constructed principally for the Children of the 
Congregation, in which divine service is regularly per- 
formed on Sundays, and in which regular instruction is 
given. 

The Catholic Congregation is at present the largest 
in the City, numbering ten thousand souls. In conse- 
quence of this great increase, they have it in contem- 
plation to erect a new Church in the north part of the 
city, as soon as a convenient and proper site can be 
obtained. 

ST. Augustine's church. 

South Boston. 

This Church was erected in 1819, by the Catholic 
Congregation of Boston, with the approbation and as- 
sistance of the Rt. Rev. Bishop Cheverus. It has lately 
been also greatly improved, and has received consider- 
able additions. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 151 

In connection with these Churches, it is proper to 
mention that the Rev. Mr. Thayer made a provision in 
his will towards the establishment of an Ursuline Con- 
vent. Four Ursuline Nuns, having been invited by 
Bishop Cheverus, arrived in Boston in June, 1820, 
where they undertook the instruction of female chil- 
dren till July 1826, when they removed to constitute 
the 

URSULINE COMMUNITY, 
Mount Benedict, in Charlestown. 

This beautiful and extensive establishment is about 
two and a half miles from the city, delightfully located, 
and commanding one of the most rich and variegated 
prospects in the United States. The plan of education 
pursued here is very extensive, embracing all those at- 
tainments which are considered necessary, useful or 
ornamental in society. The first and leading object with 
the ladies who have the charge of instruction, is to im- 
press upon the minds of their pupils the importance of 
the great and sublime truths of religion ; the other pur- 
suits are such useful and elegant studies as are intro- 
duced in our best conducted and most popular female 
seminaries. 

Adjoining the establishment, is a garden, beautifully 
laid out, to which the young ladies always have access. 
Besides this they are allowed, on days of recreation, to 
extend their walks over the whole farm, attended how- 
ever by one or more of their instructers. One of the 
regulations of the establishment is, that each young la- 
dy, who applies for admission, bring with her a bed and 
bedding, six napkins, six towells, and table furniture. 



162 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

consisting of a silver table and tea spoon, knife, fork, and 
tumbler, all which are returned at her departure. The 
uniform of the young ladies, consists, on week days, of 
a grey bombazett dress, and white on Sundays. 

TERMS. — For board and Tuition per annum, payable 
quarterly, in advance, $125,00. — For ink, quills, and 
paper, $4,00. 

Extra charges are made for each of the languages, 
except the English, and also for tuition in music and 
other extra branches. 



METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. 

The societies of this persuasion being all intimately 
connected, we shall notice them all under this one head. 
As early as the year 1768, when the British regiments 
were quartered in Boston, there were some of the sol- 
diers who were Methodists, and soon gathered meetings. 
But the Rev. Wm. Black is the first regular preacher 
who appeared in any of our pulpits under this denomma- 
tion, unless Mr. Whitfield be considered so. Mr. B. 
arrived here in 1784. From that time the sentiments 
gradually gained friends, until they formed a regular 
society, in August, 1792, which now bears the name 
of the 

FIRST METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. 

This society met in various places until 1796, when 
they had erected for themselves a convenient chapel in 
Methodist Alley, at North Boston ; it was dedicated May 
15th. This building was of wood, 46 by 36 feet. The 
church at that time numbered 50 communicants. Reg- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 15S 

uiar and occasional meetings were constantly maintain- 
ed in this house till September 18, 1828, when the new 
chapel in North Bennet Street was dedicated. This is a 
handsome brick edifice, combining simpUcity and neat- 
ness with the requisite grandeur and ornament. 

It was at the laying of the corner stone of this church, 
that the most awful occurrence ever witnessed among 
us occurred. The exterior walls of the cellar having 
been completed, the frame work of the floor perfectly 
laid, and the first layer of floor-boards closely jointed 
and nailed down, the 30th of April, 1828, was appointed 
for the rehgious ceremonies. The day was uncommonly 
favorable for an assembly in the open air ; there was a 
deep stillness in the atmosphere, and the sun was suffi- 
ciently covered with the clouds from the east to prevent 
the glare and heat of its rays. The preliminary services 
being performed, the Rev. Mr. Maffitt commenced the 
usual address. His position not being favourable to ac- 
commodate all the audience, he moved towards the cor- 
ner of the western wall of the building, near the street. 
From this place the address was recommenced. The 
agitation of the crowd subsided to a breathless stillness, 
and the voice of the speaker reverberated from the dwel- 
lings which stood around the site of the church like the 
walls of an amphitheatre. Towards the close of the ad- 
dress, after the delivery of a passage almost prophetic, 
which alluded to the time when the material walls of the 
edifice should have crumbled into dust, nearly one fifth 
of the whole extent of the flooring, with probably more 
than two hundred people, of all ages, sexes and variety 
of condition, were precipitated, without the least warn-, 
ing, into the cellar, a depth of about eleven feet. 

The scene that now ensued exceeds the powers ot^ de-. 
scription. It was like one of the terrible scenes of war* 
14 



154 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

or earthquake, and is remembered by those who fell into 
the chasm, and those who could look into it, as a con- 
fused, horrible and bloody dream. The length of the 
floor beam which broke and fell into the cellar was 
about thirty-four feet, it broke near the middle, the cen- 
tre of the floor falling first, which precipitated all who 
stood on it tovv'ards that point where they fell six or eight 
deep, crowded almost to suffocation ; and when the op- 
posite ends of the beams and the falUng floor struck the 
ground, there was a terrible rebound of the timbei*s in 
the centre, under which human flesh and bones were 
crushed like the tender herbs of the field. 

Providentially, of the vast number that were exposed, 
not one person was instantly killed. Many suffered 
severe bruises, and many limbs were broken ; all but 
three, survived the injuries they received. 



SECOND METHODIST CHURCH. 

In the year 1806, the Methodist Society, on the M of 
March, ' resolved that it was expedient to build another 
chapel for the worship of Almighty God.' On the 15th. 
of April, the corner stone of the house in Bromfield's 
lane was laid by Rev. Peter Jayne, and it was completed 
and dedicated on the 19th of November following.— 
Rev. Samuel Merwin preached on the occasion. This 
chapel is built of brick, its dimensions are 84 by 54 feet. 
Near the N. E. corner, in the middle course of ham- 
mered stone, in the foundation, is a block taken from the 
celebrated rock on which our forefathers landed at Ply- 
mouth. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 155 



SOUTH BOSTON METHODIST CHURCH. 

This Society was incorporated Feb. 15, 1825. They 
had previously erected a house of v^^orship, which was 
dedicated Jan. 22, 1825. 

By the regulations of this denomination, their clef'- 
gymen preach interchangeably at the several chapels, 
and have been usually stationed in Boston only for two 
successive years. To this rule there have been but 
a few exceptions. 

List of Methodist Ministers who have officiated in the 
Boston station. 

Jesse Lee, 1790. Elijah Hedding, Erastus Otis, 1811. 

Daniel Smith, 1791. Wm. Stephens, Wm. Hinman, 1812, 

Jeremiah Cosdeii, 1792. Daniel Weijb, Elijah Hedding, 1813. 

Amos G. Thompson, 1793. Geo. Pickering, Joseph A. Merrill, 1814. 
Christopher Spry, 1791. Elijah Hedding, Daniel Filmore, 1815. 
Evan Rogers, 1795. Elijah Hedding, Daniel Filmore, 1816. 

John Harper, 1795. Timothy Merriit, Enoch Mudge, 1817. 

Joshua Hale, 1796. Timothy Merritt, Enoch Mudge, 1818. 

George Pickering, 1796. Benja. R. Hoyt, V. R. Osborn, 1819, 
Elias Hull, 1797. D. Kilburn, B. R. Hoyt, 1820. 

Daniel Ostander, 1797. S. W. Wilson, Eph. Wiley, 1821. 

Wm. Beauchamp, 1798, Elijah Hedding, E. Wiley, 1822. 

Joshua Wells, 1799. Elijah Hedding, John Lindsey, 1823. 

Thomas F. Sargent, 1800. Solomon Sias, Isaac Bonny, 1824. 
George Pickering, 1801. T. Merritt, I. Bonny, A. D. Sargent, 1825. 
Thomas Lyali, 1802. T. Merritt, J. A. Merrill, J. Foster, 1826. 

T. Lyal!, E. Kibby, 1803. J. A. Merrill, J.N. Maflitt, D. Webb, 1827. 
Epaphras Kibby, 1804. Stephen Martindale, E. Wiley, 1828. 

r. Jayne, R. Hubbard, 1 805. S. Martindale, E. Wiley, > 
P.Jayne, S. Merwin, 1806. E.T.Taylor, ^1829. 

G. Pickering, D. Wcbb,l 807. 1. Bonny, J. N. Maffitt, E.T. Taylor, 1 830 

D. Webb, M. Rutter, 1808. I.Bonny, A D Merrell, E T Taylor, 1831. 

E. R.SabinP.Munger, 1809. J.Sanborn, J Lindsey, E.T. Tay- ? 

E. R. Sabin, G. Norris, 1810. lor, S. W. Willson, 5 *'^^^' 



156 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

SEA STREET CHURCH. 

Commenced in 1803. 

In the year 1803, a religious society was commenced, 
of the denomination of Freewill Baptists. It was at first 
composed of persons who seceded from the other Bap- 
tist churches in town, and adhered to the doctrines at 
that time promulgated by Messrs. Thomas Jones and 
Elias Smith. They have since been known under the 
distinctive appellation of Christians. Their first meet- 
ings were held in a large wooden building in Friend 
Street, then adjoining the Mill-pond. They have since 
occupied the hall in Bedford Street, and Dec. 29, 1825, 
dedicated the brick meeting-house at the corner of 
Summer and Sea Streets. They have a number of 
preachers, who have continued with them a short time. 
When they have no elders to preach, they often ex- 
hort each other, both male and female. The same priv- 
ilege is granted to all pious people, when assembled with 
them, of whatever denomination they may be. Their 
present minister is the Rev. Joshua V. Himes. 

AFRICAN BAPTIST CHURCH. 

Constituted, 1805. 



Ministers. 


Settlement. 


Exit. 


Jgc. 


1 Thomas Paul, 


Dec. 4, 1806 


April 13, 1831 


64 


2 Thomas Richie, 


Oct, 1832 







A church was gathered from among the coloured peo- 
ple, in the year 1805, which, when formed, was de- 
nominated the African Baptist Church. The year after, 
they began to make exertions towards building them- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 157 

selves a place of worship. A committee was chosen to 
make collections for the purpose,among whom was Cato 
Gardner a native of Africa, who had long been a re- 
spectable member of Dr. Stillman's church. At his im- 
portunity a subscription paper was prepared, which Cato 
circulated in different places, and obtained about ^1500. 
Others of the church made collections to a considerable 
amount; and finding sufficient encouragement, the 
church chose a committee of white men to superintend 
the building of a house, in a court in the rear of Bel- 
knap Street It was completed, and dedicated Dec. 4, 
1806 ; Mr. Paul was installed at the same time The 
house is of brick, 40 feet by 48, three stories high. 
The lower story is fitted up for a school room for African 
children, and has been occupied as such from the time it 
was finished. The two upper stories are well furnished 
with pews, pulpit and galleries. The lot is small, and 
with the house cost about ^8030. The memory of Cato is 
perpetuated in an inscription on a marble slab on the 
north front of the building. 



THE AFRICAN METHODIST 

Episcopal society is under the pastoral care of the Rev. 
Samuel Snowden, an ordained elder of the Methodist 
connexion, a man of color, born at the South, but having 
spent most of the last 25 years in the New-England 
States. He became a preacher in 1815, and removed to 
Boston in 1818, soon after this church was gathered. Its 
number at the first organization was twenty-three ; it 
reported to the annual conference, (in June, 1827) 
eighty-four members, all colored persons. Previous to 
the year 1824, they met at a private house in May Street. 
14* 



158 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

In that year, ' by the combined hberality of the citi- 
zens and christians of different denominations,' they 
were provided with a chapel, which was ' dedicated to 
the worship of the Most High God,' on Sunday, the 
24th of October. This building is of brick, 40 feet by 
25 ; the lower story accommodates a family and a pri- 
mary school for colored children ; the meetings of the 
Society are held in the upper room, which is usually 
filled with hearers. 

THIRD BAPTIST CHURCH. 

Constituted, Aug. 5, 1807. 

Ministers. Settlement. Exit. Age. 

1 Rev. Caleb Blood, Oct. 5, 1807 June 5, 1810 — 

2 Rev. Daniel Sharp, April, 29, 1812 

Proposals for building another Baptist meeting-house 
were issued in Aug. 1806. A lot of land had been pre- 
viously procured on Charles Street, part of which was 
given by the Mount Vernon Company, and the greater 
part purchased by the subscribers to the undertaking. 
Five members from the First, and 19 from the Second 
Baptist church, united on the 5th of Aug. 1807, and 
were regularly constituted < as a separate church of 
Christ, by the name of the Third Baptist Church in 
Boston.' On the same day the house was dedicated. 
Rev. Dr. Baldwin preached on the occasion. The sen- 
timents of this church are Trinitarian, and congregation 
is large. 

The land on which this edifice is erected, and indeed 
the whole of Charles Street, was formerly covered with 
water at the flood of the tide in Charles river, and was 
formed of earth carried from the hill on its easterly side- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 159 

The house is handsomely constructed of brick, 75 feet 
square, exclusive of the tower, on which is a cupola 
with a bell, the first used by a Baptist Society in 
jBoston. 

PARK STREET CHURCH. 

Constituted, Feb. 27, 1809. 

Ministers. Settlement. Exit. ■^ig<^. 

1 Edw. D. Griffin, D. D. July 31, 1811 April 27, 1815 — 

2 Sereno E. Dwight, Sept, 3, 1817 April 10, 1826 -. 

3 Edw. Beecher, Dec. 27, 1826 1832 

4 J. II. Linslej, Dec. o, 1832 

The number of persons who first associated to form this 
church was 26, of whom 21 were dismissed from other 
churches, and five received by the council on profession 
of faith. The corner stone of their meeting-house was 
laid on the first of May. A plate, bearing the following 
inscription, was deposited in the south-east corner: sc. 
' Jesus Christ the chief corner stone, in whom all the 
building, fitly /rained together,' grorveth unto an holy 
temple in the Lord. This church formed February 
27th, and this foundation laid May 1st, 1809.' The 
house was dedicated to the service of God, Jan. 10, 1810. 

This edifice is delightfully situated at the bottom of 
Park Street, with the front on Tremont Street, and com- 
mands an entire view of the Common and the scenery 
southwesterly beyond Cambridge bay. The tower is 
72 feet in height, and 27 by 31 in breadth, of the Doric 
order. On each side of the tower is a circular vestibule 
of two stories, containing stairs to the galleries. This and 
the tower ornamented with four columns of 35 feet, and 
the vestibule, is crowned by an elegant pediment and 
balustrade, and the windows and doors are enriched by 
sixteen columns of the same order. The tower sup- 



160 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

ports a square story for a bell, 8 feet high, and 20 feet 
square, with four large circular mndows, eight columns 
on pedestals of the Ionic order, with corresponding 
pillasters, crowned by four pediments and cornices. 
On this stands an octagon, 25 feet high, and 16 from side 
to side, with four circular windows, ornamented with 8 
Corinthian columns, with appropriate embellishments. 
This supports another octagon of 20 feet, 12 feet 6 inch- 
es from side to side, with the same number of columns 
and windows of the Composite order. On this stands a 
base for the spire 11 feet from side to side and 9 in height, 
with 8 oval windows. From this rises an octagonal 
spire of 50 feet with a collar midway, 9 feet 6 inches at 
its base, and diminishing gradually to 18 inches at the 
top, crowned by a ball 6 feet above, with a vane repre- 
senting a blazing star. The height of the vane from 
the street is 217 feet 9 inches, which is about 10 feet 
higher than the top of the State-house. 

This was the first new Congregational church formed 
since 1748. It professes a ' decided attachment to that 
system of the Christian religion which is distinguish- 
ingly denominated EvangeUcal, more particularly to 
those doctrines which in a proper sense are styled the 
doctrines of grace,' and adopts the Congregational 
form of government, as contained in the Cambridge 
Platform, framed by the Synod of 1648. 

HAWES PLACE CHURCH. 

First Meetings, 18lO. 

Minister. Settlement. Exit, Agt. 

Lemuel Capen, Oct. 31, 1827 

This society in South Boston originated in the desire 
of a few individuals, mostly members of the Rev. Dr. 




?^^:^IU^I. JS'K^v/v ciII-0-2i£2f 



IjZ>Sj Z Sa'lS'£ \iLj 




Jtraim and i:wfraved for^oiveffsluture of^Boston . 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 161 

Harris' society, in Dorchester, to be accommodated 
with a nearer place of worship.* They were regularly 
organized as the first Congregational society at South 
Boston, in the year 1810. They obtained an act of 
incorporation, with the style of the Hawes place Con- 
gregational society, Feb. 18th, 1818. 

Mr. Thomas Pierce, of the Methodist denomination, 
preached to them about two years. This society not be- 
ing able to give him a compensation adequate to his sup- 
port, he returned to the Methodists. Soon after this 
they engaged Mr. Zephaniah Wood, the master of the 
public grammar school, to preach to them. He contin- 
ued with them till his decease, in October, 1822. 

A church was regularly organized in this society, 
Oct. 27th, 1819. With the approbation of the church, 
Mr. Wood was ordained as an evangelist, by an ecclesi- 
astical council convened at Weymouth, Nov. 14th, 1821. 
After his ordination, he statedly administered the ordi- 
nance of the Supper, but sustained no pastoral relation 
to the church and society by virtue of it. 

After the death of Mr. Wood, the Rev. Mr. Capen. 
was requested by the society to preach and administer 
the ordinances to them, and was regularly installed as 
their first minister, Oct. 31st, 1827. The society is 
now in a flourishing condition. They have a new and 
commodious church built of wood, 60 by 46 feet, and 
funds sufficient for the support of the ministry, derived 
from the will of Mr. Hawes. The corner stone of the 
new church was laid July 25, 1832, with appropriate 
ceremonies. It was completed and dedicated Jan- 
uary 1, 1833. 

* As early as June, 1807, soon afler the annexation of Dorchester 
Neck to Boston, Mr. John Hawes appropriated a piece of ground, 
on which a house for public worship was to be erected. 



162 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

The following is the substance of the ' articles of 
faith and church government ' adopted by the members 
of this Society. First, ' We believe the Holy Scrip- 
tures of the Old and New Testament were originally 
written by men inspired of God ; and we receive them 
as the only perfect rule of our faith and practice.' 
Secondly, ' In regard to our Ecclesiastical government, 
and discipline, with our sister churches in this Com- 
monwealth, we adopt the Congregational form, agree- 
able to the usages of the New England Churches.' 



ST. MATTHEW S CHURCH. 

First Meeting, March 31, 1816. 

Rector. Sctilevient. Exit. Age. 

John L. Blake, June, 1824 

The services of the Protestant Episcopal church were 
celebrated for the first time, in that part of the town call- 
ed South Boston, on Sunday, March 31, 1816. For more 
than two years the congregation met in a school-house* 
and services were conducted by different clergymen and 
lay-readers. St. Mattheiv^s church, was consecrated on 
the 24th of June, IS 18, by the Right Rev. Dr. Griswold, 
Bishop of the Eastern Diocess. It is situated on Broad- 
way, and is a neat and commodious brick building. The 
expenses of its erection were chiefly defrayed by be^ 
nevolent members of Trinity and Christ churches, with 
a view to the future wants of that section of the city. 
A service of plate for the use of the altar was presented 
by the ladies of Christ Church, and the pulpit, desk, and 
chancel, were furnished with appropriate dressings, by 
the ladies of Trinity Church. The late Mrs. Elizabeth 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 163 

Bowdoin Winthrop was a most liberal benefactor. Re- 
ligious services were maintained in this church, by oc- 
casional supplies, but it was not till June, 1824, that the 
parish enjoyed the stated labours of a minister in full 
orders, when the Rev. John L. Blake became rector. 



SECOND univi:rsalist CHURCHv 

Incorporated, Dec. 13, 1816. 

Minister. Settlement, Exit. -^ga 

Hosea Ballou, Dec. 25, 1817 

The erection of a meeting-house for the Second So- 
ciety of Universalists was proposed ' at a meeting of a 
number of members of the First Universal Society,' 
holden on Thursday, Nov. 14, 1816. Preparatory mea- 
sures were adopted, and they were incorporated Dec. 
13, 1816, ' by the name of the Second Society of Uni- 
versalists in the town of Boston.' On Monday morning. 
May 19, 1817, the corner stone of the new meeting- 
house, in School Street, was laid, and a silver plate de- 
posited, being the gift of Dr. David Townsend, bearing 
the following inscription: ' The Second Universal 
Church, devoted to the service of the true God, Jesu» 
Christ being the chief corner stone, May I9th, 1817.' 
This hckise is a plain brick building, without a steeple, 
75 feet long, and 67 broad. The dedication took place 
on Thursday, Oct. 16th ; Rev. Thomas Jones, of Glou- 
cester, preached on the occasion. Oct. 21st, Rev. Ho- 
sea Ballou was unanimously invited to the ministry over 
this society, and his installation took place on Christmas 
day, Dec. 25th, 1817. The unity of God is advocated 
by the pastor of this society. 



164 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

NEW JERUSALEM CHURCH. 

Organized, August 15, 1818. 

Minister, Settlement. Exit, Age. 

Thomas Worcester, Aug. 17, 1828 

The Boston Society of the New Jerusalem was or- 
ganized August 15, 1818. The members of this So- 
ciety are believers in the doctrines of the New Jeru- 
salem as revealed in the writings of Emmanuel Sweden- 
borg. The three following are the principal doctrines 
of this Church. Firstly, that God is One in Essence 
and in Person, and that he is the Lord Jesus Christ. — 
Secondly, that the Word or Sacred Scriptures is Divine 
Truth, that it contains internal senses within the literal, 
by means of which it is adapted to all the various 
states of angels and men. Thirdly, man is regenerated 
and thus prepared for heaven by living according 
to the Ten Commandments, and by acknowledging that 
his power to will and to do them is the Lord alone. 

The meetings of this Society for pubhc worship were 
held first in Boylston Hall; afterwards in the Pantheon, 
and the Lecture Room of the Athenaeum. In 1831 
they rented a part of a building erected by Mr. T. H. 
Carter, in PhilUps Place, Tremont Street, where they 
have since held their meetings. 

UNION CHURCH. 

Commenced in 1818. 

Minister. Settlement. ExiU Agt. 

Samuel Green, March 26, 1823 

After the Essex Street Church, first so called, remov- 
ed to Boylston hall, a minority of that body continued to 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 165 

maintain worship in the Essex Street house.* On the 
22d of March, 1822, they requested a ' regular dismis- 
sion from the majority, for the purpose of being formed 
into a regular church. This they received on the 5th 
of April, and on the 10th of June following, ten of their 
numbers, with two members of another church, were 
embodied according to the custom of Congregational 
churches. Having received an accession of members 
from the Old South and Park Street churches, and one 
from Braintree, this body adopted the name by which it 
is now known, of Union Church, on the 26th of Au- 
gust, 1S22, and on the 26th of March, 1823, the Rev. 
Samuel Gz-een was installed as their pastor. This 

* The Rev. James Sabine, (who came to Boston in July, 1818, from 
St. Johns, Newfoundland, together with several members of a society 
over which he had been settled there,) gathered and organized a society, 
Jan. 27, 1819, by the name of the Essex Street Church. Mr, Sabine 
was at the same time recognized as its pastor. Their first meetings had 
been held in Boylston Hall, but the congregation increasing, arrange- 
ments weie made for erecting this edifice in Essex Street, In the course 
of two years, some difficulties arose, which resulted in a vote, March 6, 
1822, 'that this church think it necessary to withdraw from the house 
of worship in Essex Street, and that after this date they do meet for 
worship and communion in Boylston Mall.' Accordingly on the follow- 
ing Sabbaih they assembled there, and retained the name of Essex 
Street Church until Nov. 26, 1823, when they were acknowledged and 
received by the Londonderry Presbytery, and organized into their 
body. Thus they became the second Presbyterian church, (Mr. 
Moorhead's having been the first) notwithstanding they were incorpo- 
rated as ' The First Presbyterian church in the city of Boston,'' The 
corner stone of their new house on Piedmont Street, was laid July 4, 
1827, and was dedicated Jan 31, 1828. In 1829 Mr. Sabine renounced 
his sentiments, withdrew from the Presbyterian Society, and embraced 
the doctrines of the Episcopal Church. A majority of his society 
joined with hiru and aided in forming Grace Church. The building 
in Piedmont Street, in consequence of the breaking up of the Pres- 
byterian Society, has become vacant, and b owned by eight individuals^ 
who haye it lor sale or to let. 
15 



Originated iu 1819. 




Rectors. Settlement, 
Samuel F, Jarvis, D. D. July 7, 1820 
Alonzo Potter, Aug. 29, 1826 
John S. Stone, June 19, 1832 


Exit. 
Aug 22, 1825 
Aug, 27 1331 



166 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

society owns and occupies the house erected in Essex 
Street, of which the corner stone was laid June 26, and 
the dedication took place, Dec. 1819. The property 
in this building is vested in the communicants, by a 
trust deed, which guarrantees to them the right of choos- 
ing their own pastor, without the interference of any 
other body. This church is Trinitarian. 

ST. Paul's church. 



Jge. 



St. Paul's church was proposed to be erected by a 
subscription which was commenced in March, 1819. — 
The corner stone was laid Sept. 4th, with appropriate 
solemnities. The church was consecrated June 30, 
1820, by the Rt. Rev. Alexander Viets Griswold, Bislr- 
op of the Eastern diocese, assisted by the Rt. Rev.Thos. 
C. Brownwell, Bishop of the diocese of Connecticut, 
with many of the clergy. Dr. Samuel Farmar Jarvis 
instituted rector, Friday, July 7, 1820. 

This edifice is situated on Tremont Street, between 
Winter and West Streets, and fronts towards the Com- 
mon. It is built of fine grey granite, and is an imita- 
tion, so far as respects the architecture, of a Grecian 
model of the Ionic order. The body of the church is 
about 112 feet long by 72 feet wide, and 40 feet high 
from the platform to the top of the cornice. The porti- 
co projects about 14 feet, and has six Ionic columns, 3 
feet five inches diameter, and 32 feet high, of Potomac 
sand-stone, laid in courses. The base of the building 
rises four feet, and there is a flight of steps to the pw- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 167 

tico, extending the whole width of the front. The in- 
terior is Ughted by ten long windows, and has a chancel 
and organ gallery. The ceiling is a cylindrical vault, 
withpannels which span the whole width of the church. 
Beneath the principal floor, there are commodious and 
well constructed tombs, secured in a manner to obviate 
any objection which fear, or experience, or observation 
may have suggested. 

The interior of St. Paul's is remarkable for its sim- 
plicity and beauty, and the materials of which the build- 
ing has been constructed, give it an intrinsic value and 
effect, which have not been produced by any imitations 
of the classic models, that have been attempted of bricks 
and plaster in other cities. The erection of this church 
may be considered the commencement of an era in the 
art, in Boston; and although from its situation it is some- 
what obscured, the beauties it displays have already had 
a sensible influence on taste in architecture : and those 
who are aware of the importance of this art, in giving 
form to our city, will consider themselves under the 
highest obligations to the disinterested and high-minded 
individuals of the committee, by whom this church has 
been designed and erected, and will not withold the 
meed of praise from the architect and artists, who super- 
intended the construction of it. 



CENTRAL UNIVERSALIST CHURCH. 

Society formed, 1852. 

Minister. Settlement. Exit. Age. 

Paul Dean, May 7, 1823. 

The corner stone of this house of public worship 
was laid Oct. 7, 1822. A silver plate was as usual de- 
posited beneath it, on which the following was the prin- 
cipal inscription : — « JEf e that built and sustains all 



168 PICTURE OF BOSTON/ 

things is Jehovah — This house devoted to the worship 
«f Almighty God, and to the promulgation of his great 
salvation through Jesus Christ, the chief corner stone, 
was commenced and this stone laid, Oct. 7th, in the year 
of our Lord, 1822, of the Independence of the United 
States, the 46th, and of the Institution of the city of 
Boston, the first.' The house was dedicated in the fore- 
noon of the 6th of May, 1823, and in the afternoon, the 
Rev. Paul Dean, having recently dissolved his connec- 
tion with the First Universal church,- was installed as 
pastor of the new society. This editice is situated at 
the corner of Bulfinch Street and Bulfinch Place, Its 
dimensions are 74 by 70 feet, and 35 high above the base. 
It is a brick building and has two towers, one for the ac- 
commodation of the bell, and the other for symmetry. 

The interior of this church is finished in a very nice 
manner. The pews are of the settee form, with mahog- 
any rails and arms. It has three galleries trussed from 
the ant£es in the corners, which support a vaulted dome 
ceiling ; from the centre of which is suspended an ele- 
gant cut glass chandelier. The pulpit is of variegated 
maple, elevated on a pedestal of black and white mar- 
ble. The whole was designed and arranged by Mr. 
Solomon Willard, architect. There is a very full Sun- 
day School, under the management of this society. 

EVANGELICAL CHURCH. 

South Boston. 

Constituted December 10, 182S. 

Itlinisters. Settlement. Exit, -^g'* 

Prince Havves, April 23, 1824 April 18, 1827 — 

Joy H. Fairchild, Kov. 22, 1827 

In February, 1823, the Rev. Prince Hawes commenc- 
ed preaching to a small congregation at South Boston. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 169 

In the spring of that year, one of the members at his 
own expense erected a hall for their accommodation. 
On the 10th of December a church was organized, by 
the name of the Evangelical Congregational Church, 
consisting of 13 members. Mr Hawes was installed 
pastor of this church, April 28, 1824. The hall in which 
this society assembled became so crowded that it was 
desirable they should be provided with a more conve- 
nient place for public worship. Benevolent individuals 
subscribed for the purpose, and they have built a house 
of brick, 70 feet by 50, every way commodious, but 
without galleries, except at one of the ends. The house 
was dedicated on the 9th of March, 1825. This church 
maintains the doctrine of the Trinity. 



GREEN STREET CHURCH. 

Constituted, Dec. 30, 1823. 

Miidster. Settlement, Exit, Age, 

William Jenks, D. D. Oct. 25, 182G 

Under the patronage and influence of benevolent in- 
dividuals associated as a society for the moral and reli- 
gious instruction of the poor, a meeting was established 
at Parkman's market, Jan. 31 , 1819. Publick worship 
was regularly maintained half a day; and besides the 
particular classes, for which the meetings were institut- 
ed, it was found that a considerable number of persons 
assembled, whose circumstances rendered their attend- 
ance at the more frequented houses of worship incon- 
venient. Further exertions were therefore made for 
15* 



170 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

their accommodation, and a house was then erected 
on the west side of Butolph Street, known by the name 
of the Mission House. It was dedicated July 5, 1821, 
and a church, consisting of 17 members, was constitut- 
ed, Dec. 30, 1823. 

In that house, Rev. Dr. Jenks oflficiated as their min- 
ister, until he had gathered around him a body of friends 
who determined on the erection of a new church in 
Green Street. The corner stone of this edifice was 
laid April 8, 1826. In the progress of the building, a 
serious accident occured. While the roof was raising, 
(June 13) the fastenings gave way, the roof fell and 
knocked down part of the front wall and staging. Two 
persons lost their lives, and several others were severely 
wounded. The building was completed and dedicated 
on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 1826, and Dr. Jenks' installation 
took place at the same time. 

This edifice being in several respects different in its 
construction from any of our churches, and the prefer- 
ence to this style having been given by one whose ac- 
curacy of taste might be almost proverbial, we insert 
at length the architectural description of it, as drawn up 
by Mr R. Bond the architect. 

Exterior. The form is a parallelogram, 70 feet front, 
and 76 feet 6 inches from front to rear ; the walls rise 
from a basement of hammered granite 7 feet high, to 
the height of 28 feet, under the horizontal cornice of 
the pediment. Its leading features present 3 arched 
recesses 10 feet wide and 25 feet high to the crown of 
the arch. In each of these recesses, 9 feet from the 
basement, is a freestone pannel, supported by pilasters 
at each end, 12 by 16 inches, with plain moulded free- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 171 

«tone capitals. Over the pannels in each recess stands 
a circular head window, 4 feet 6 inches by 9 feet 6 in- 
ches. Under the pannels in the outer recesses is a 
flight of 9 steps to a platform of stone 6 by 10 feet. 
The steps are almost wholly within the front wall, reach- 
ing, with the platforms, to the partition wall, which ex- 
tends the whole width of the house, separating the 
stairways and vestibule from the main body of the 
house. At each end, and to the right and left of the 
platforms are doors leading to the stairways and vesti- 
bule. Under the pannel in the middle recess is a win- 
dow to light the vestibule. The cornice is the Greek 
Ionic, with the exception of the cymatium under the 
cimarecta. On the middle stone pannel is the inscrip- 
tion, A. D. MDCCCXXVI. 

The vertical angle of the pediment is 153° . The 
tympanum of the pediment recedes 4 inches, in the 
centre of which is a circular window 4 feet diameter. 
From the roof, on a line with the front wall, rises a 
pedestal 2 feet 6 inches above the apex of the roof. It 
is on this that the cupola is reared, 13 by 14 feet, and 16 
feet high, exclusive of the roof and spindle, and finished 
with pillasters at the angles, supporting a plain entabla- 
ture after the manner of the Greek antae, taken from 
the choragic monument of Thrasyllus. 

There are 3 windows in each of the side walls, con- 
taining 60 panes of glass, 12 by 18 inches, with circu- 
lar heads of 18 panes each. 

Interior. The principal floor is elevated 7 feet, and 
rises from the pulpit to the front of the house about 14 in- 
ches. The ascent to it is by a flight of steps in each of 
the outer recesses already described. The outer doors 
open into a vestibule 9 1-2 by 26 feet. The main body 



172 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

of the house is 63 feet 6 inches by 67 feet, containing 120 
pews on the principal floor. The entrances from the 
vestibule leading to the aisles of the house are convenienti,- 
The pulpit which was lirst placed in front of the building" 
between the two entrances, has been recently placed 
opposite the door, as in other churches, and is finished 
in a very neat style. The fine toned organ belonging 
to this society, adds much to the singing choir. 

The galleries are 9 feet wide, and contain 24 pews. 
The visible support is by cast iron columns. The 
singers' gallery is in the front of the house, and over 
the vestibule. The ascent to the galleries is by a flight 
of stairs in each of the front angles of the building; 
over which, on each side is a lobby for coloured peo- 
ple. The front of the galleries are finished with one 
continued bead and flush pannel round the whole, 
and capt with a plain moulded cornice corresponding 
with the ant£E. 

The ceiling is level to the distance of 9 feet from the 
walls, with a plain moulded cornice in the angles. It 
then recedes 4 inches, in which are sulken moulded 
pannels. Within these pannels is another recess of 6 
inches, surrounded with an archtrave 2 feet wide, con- 
taining 7 sunken frets. Lastly, within this is a centre 
piece, containing 7 plain water leaves, surrounded with 
a reeded architrave. The ceiUng is whited and the 
walls colored. 

The roof is framed with straight beams and trussed 
in a manner to support itself. The house is warmed by 
a furnace in the basement at the N. W. angle. 

The building is of brick, and has a vestry or chapel 
adjoining it, and opening into the body of the house ; 
although its main entrance is from Stamford Street. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 17$ 

CHAMBEE STREET CHURCH. 

ConstiUled Jan. 28, 1825. 

Minuter. Settlement. Exit, Age, 

Samuel Barrett. Feb. 9, 1 825 

In the year 1S23, several gentlemen conferred to- 
gether on the apparent want of a new house of worship 
for the accommodation of the increasing population of 
the western section of the city. It was ascertained that 
the Rev. Dr. Lowell's, the only Congregational society 
in that part of the city, comprised at that time about 
350 families, and that many in the neighborhood could 
not obtain suitable accommodations within a convenient 
distance. In view of these circumstances, a plan was 
originated for the erection of a new church, and in the 
course of a few weeks, 230 shares were subscribed by 
ninety persons. In January, 1824, an act of incorpo- 
ration was obtained under the title of ' The Twelfth 
Congregational Society in the City of Boston.'* 

The corner stone of the new house was laid on the 
10th of May. The dedication took place October 13th : 
Rev. Jno. G. Palfrey preached on the occasion from 
Matt. xvi. 3. On the 19th December, Mr. Samuel 
Barrett, from the Theological School at Cambridge, was 
invited by the Society to become their pastor. Janua- 
ry 28, 1825, a church was constituted from the mem- 
bers of the society, and on the 9th of February, Mr- 
Barrett was ordained. The socieiy is Unitarian, and is 
v^considered flourishing. 

* This Society is in fact the l^tli Congregational Church formed 
regularly in Boston, and is the 15th of those now ia existence i we 
know not why it is called the twelfth 



174 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

BOWBOIN STREET CHURCH. 

Consitituied July IS, 1825. 

3Iinisters. Settlement. Exit, -^gc- 

Ljman Beechcr, D. D. March 22, 132i5 Sept. 1832 * 

Hubbard Winslow, Sept. 1832 

The church and society now worshipping in Bowdoin 
Street formerly occupied the Stone Church in Hanover 
Street; but after that building was consumed by fire, 
(which took place Feb. 1, 1830.) The proprietors of 
that edifice sold the lot of land on which it was built, 
and such of them as usually worshipped in the Han- 
nover Church united in building a new meeting house 
in Bowdoin Street, which they considered a more cen- 
tral and convenient location. The house was completed 
and dedicated June 16, 1831 . Rev. Dr. Beecher preached 
the sermon. By the plan of organization, adopted by 
the pew proprietors and members of the church, the 
church have the right in all cases, to select a pastor 
to be proposed to the pew proprietors, for their concur- 
rence, if they concur a call is given by those two bodies 
jointly, if they do not concur, the church select again; the 
amount of salary to be paid to the Pastor and all other 
financial concerns are controlled by the Pew Proprietors. 
The Society is incorporated by the name of ' The Bow- 
doin Street Congregational Society' The new house 
differs considerably in its construction from the old one. 

The exterior of the house including the tower and 
circular projection in the rear wall is 98 by 75 feet. The 
interior of the house, including a circular recess of 6 
feet for the pulpit is 77 by 71 feet. The tower is 2& 
feet by 20, projecting 6 feet in front of the main wall. 
Height of the main wall 40 feet, that of the tower 70 feet^ 

* Elected to the Piesidency of Lane Theological Semin»ry. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON, 175 

The interior of the house is of a plain and neat con- 
struction, meeting the eye as you enter it with an un- 
usual air of pleasantness, owing to its symmetrical 
proportions. The ceiling is eliptical, 36 feet in heightin 
the centre, and 26 feet from the spring of the arch. The 
church rests on a basement of 12 feet in height, which 
is centered on either side through passages of 7 feet in 
width. 

The house is lighted entirely with gas. The general 
style of the house is oi primitive Gothic. It is built 
entirely of undressed granite, the tower and wings are 
built with solid walls, the sides are built with dimen- 
sion stone filled in, the rear wall is composed of stone, 
of irregular form and dimensions. 

The choir is furnished with a very superior and pow- 
erful organ of Gothic structure made by Mr. Thomas 
Appleton of this City. It is 23 1-2 feet in height, 13 1-2 
feet in width, and 10 1-2 feet in depth with 33 stops and 
1400 pipes. 

The music in this church is said to be of a very high 
character. It is under the direction of Lowell Mason, 
Esq. and the choir is composed entirely of young 
gentlemen and ladies of the society, who have volun- 
tarily associated to conduct this interesting part of public 
worship. 

PURCHASE STREET CHURCH. 

Society formed, 1825, 

Minsiter, Settlement. Exit, Age. 

George Ripley, Nov, 8, 1826 

The success which attended the erection of Cham- 
ber Street Church encouraged the friends of Unitarian- 



176 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

ism to proceed and build another in Purchase Street, the 
next year. The corner stone was laid, September 7, 
1825, with the appropriate services, in the presence of 
about 300 spectators. An account of the origin of the-, 
undertaking was read by the Rev. Mr. Young, and an- 
address by the Rev. Mr. Ware. The dedication took 
place on Thursday, August 24th, 1826. The pulpit 
was subsequently supplied by Rev. George Ripley, . 
who became pastor of the society, by ordination, on the 
Sth of November, 1826. A Church had been gathered 
previously to the ordination. 

The whole plan of this edifice is neat, simple and 
convenient; and reflects great credit upon the taste 
and judgment of Mr. Willard, the Architect. Tt is 
built of rough hewn granite, and covers a space of 
81 by 14 feet. It stands near the edge of the water, at 
the head of the wharf where the famous Tea Vessels 
lay, on the memorable night of December, 16, 1773.. 

EBENEZER CHURCH. 

Instituted, January 18, 1826. 

This church was instituted under the rules and reg- 
ulations adopted by the colored community of New- 
York, entitled the Ashhurij Connection, by which we 
understand an Independent African Methodist Episco- 
pacy, distinct from the General Methodist Conference. — 
Rev. James Lee, their first minister, was ordained 
March 18, 1826, by Bishop William Miller of New- 
York. He relinquished the charge in 1828, and is suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Stephen Button. They have erected 
a commodious house of worship on the east side of Cen- 
tre Street, West Boston, which is well attended. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 177 

FEDERAL STREET BAPTIST CHURCH.. 

Recognized, July 18, 1827. 

Minister. Settlement., Exit. ■^ge^ 

Howard Malcom, Nov. 1828 

The Federal Street Baptist meeting-house was open- 
ed for Religious worship, July 18, 1827. It is a neat 
and spacious hrick edifice, 74 feet wide and 86 long. 
The interior is particularly chaste and pleasing. It has 
a basement story, containing a large and convenient 
lecture room, two vestry rooms for candidates to prepare 
for baptism, and two large Sunday School rooms, one of 
which is 70 feet long and fitted up with extraordinary 
adaptation to its object. In front of the pulpit is a bap- 
tistery, and in the choir is a fine organ. There are 117 
pews on the lower floor and 34 in the gallery. The 
house has a cupola, and a bell weighing 1635 lbs. The 
corner stone was laid Sept. 25, 1826. The land, on 
which the building stands, formed part of the garden 
of the late Hon. R. T. Paine, and cost nearly $16,000. 
The church, consisting of 65 persons, the principal 
part being members of the Baptist churches in the city> 
was organized and publicly recognized, on the day of 
the dedication. They had been, in the most harmonious 
manner, set a part as a colony for this purpose. 

On the 9th of January, 1828, Rev. Howard Malcom 
of Philadelphia was installed, though he had however 
been settled as Pastor some months previous. The 
congregation has grown with astonishing rapidity and 
is now one of the largest in the city. 
16 



178 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

PINE STREET CHURCH. 

Constituted, Sept. 1, 1327, 

31inistcrs. Settlhnent. Exit, Ag(. 

1 Thoma= H. Skinner D, D. Api il lO, 1 823 Aug. 27, 1 828 

2 John Brown D. D. March 4, 1823 Feb. 16, 1831 

3 Amos A. rhelps, Sept. 13, 1832, 

The corner stone of a new Trinitarian church was 
laid, on the morning of June 20, 1827. The site of the 
house is on the east side of Washington Street, at the 
corner of Pine Street, directly opposite Warren Street. 
A church was constituted of 45 members to occupy this 
house, on Saturday, Sept. 1, 1827, and the dedication 
took place, on the following Christmas Day, Rev. Dr. 
Skinner, from Philadelphia, was installed, but the fee- 
ble state of his health compelled him soon to relinquish 
the station. The Rev. Dr. Brown, was from Cazenova, 
New York. The Rev. Mr. Phelps, was formerly set- 
tled in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. 

The Pine Street Church is 71 feet in width, and 80 
feet in length, with a pediment of 10 feet with a tow- 
er, and a bell weighing 1400. The whole exterior is a 
classic form, taken from the Temple of Theseus at 
Athens. The front is finished in the Grecian Doric style ; 
the pediment is supported by 6 Doric columns. On the 
south side is a pleasant green. The house contains 182 
pews. In the basement is a Vestry, 46 by 40, and a 
Committee Room, 27 by 20 feet. The inside work is done 
in a plain neat style presenting a beautiful appear- 
ance. The front gallery is furnished with a handspniQ 
clock. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 179 



SALEM CHURCH. 



Formed, September 1, 1827. 

Ministers. Settlement^ Exit. ^ge, 

1 Justin Edwards, D. D, Jan. 1, 182S Aug, 20, 1829 * 

2 George W. Blagden, Nov. 3, loJO. 



The ceremony of laying the corner stone of the 
Trinitarian Church at the corner of Salem and North 
Bennett Streets took place, July 17, 1827. Ninety- 
seven persons were formed into a church to occupy this 
house, at the same time that the Fine Street Church was 
formed, Sept. 1. 1827> The dedication occurred on 
January 1, 1828, and the installation of Rev. Dr. Ed- 
wards at the same time. 

The body of the house is 74 by 71 feet. The ves- 
tibule projects in front about 12 feet, having circular 
flanks. The vestibule is finished in the centre with a 
pediment, corresponding in style to the covering of the 
house, whicli is simple Tuscan. The pediment is sur- 
mounted by a wooden tower 20 feet square, and rising 
about 2 feet above the apex of the main roof, and sus- 
taining an octagon bell-tower, or cupola of the simplest 
Ionic, crowned with a plain hemispheric dome. The 
interior contains on the lower floor 134 pews, and in the 
gallery 46, making in all 180. The ceihng is a simple 
arch from side to side, springing from a projecting belt 
of stucco, which extends around the entire building. — 
The arch is indented with recesses or block pannels in 
the simplest style. The desk is of mahogany, resting 
upon G Ionic pillars with antique capitals, and appropri- 

* Rev, Dr. Edwards on account of ill health, was at his own re- 
quest and hy advice of council dismissed. 



ISO PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

ate entablature, and is ascended by circular stairs on 
either hand. The entire finish must be regarded as 
plain ; yet in geod keeping, and the several parts so dis- 
posed as on the whole to render it imposing, neat and ele- 
gant. The house was erected under the superintend- 
ence of Joseph Jenkins, Esq. who also was the archi- 
tect. The house is furnished with a fine toned bell, 
weighing about 1500 lbs. 

The Church consisted of the following number of 
members, Nov, 1, 1832, viz— males 75, female 163, 
total 238. 



SOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. 

Society formed, 1S27. 

Minister. Settlement, Exit, Jge. 

Mellish I. MoUe, May 21, 1S28 

Soon after the commencement of Pine Street Church, 
measures were taken to establish an additional Unitarian 
Society at the south part of the city. The site selected 
for their intended house of worship was on the east 
side of Washington Street, a short distance south of the 
Trinitarian Church. The corner stone was laid, Aug. 
7th, 1827, and the dedication took place, Jan. 30, 1828. 
Rev. Mr. Ware preached on this occasion, from John 
Xvii, 17, the same text which Rev. Mr. Knowles had 
taken at Mr. Malcom's installation, a few days before. 
On the 21st of May, Rev. MelUsh Irving Motte was 
installed as pastor of the Society. Rev. Dr. Channing 
preached on the occasion. 

It is a large and commodious house, containing 124 
pews on the floor, and 42 in the galleries. Its appear- 
ance is neat ; the ceiling is flat, and is brought lower 




•y.-fctr al-i-liVfi ^'J, liLK^'SS.S-'^ ^ 



^ms,^'j: fJJi"ir^< 




A'7,//.// ,//',/ El,,/nir<',l n-r /;r).-,V/'.-7 /V,V///V <>/' BoshHi. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 181 

than in most other churches ; the pulpit probably 
unites more excellencies in its construction than any- 
other in Boston. Neither so high as in the old churches, 
nor so open as in some modern ones, it presents a front 
of good proportions, and affords ample room for all the 
clergymen who may be called to officiate on public 
occasions. It is situated in a recess, the wall of which 
is covered by drapery arranged with much taste, and 
through a door in which the minister may descend to 
the Vestry. This is admirably planned, consisting of 
two large rooms connected by folding doors. 

mariners' church — FORT HILL. 

This Church is under the charge of ' the Boston Sea- 
man's Friend Society,' formed in Jan. 1828. Their object 
is to furnish regular evangelical ministrations for seamen, 
and to employ such other means for their spiritual and 
temporal wellfare, as are contemplated by the national 
institution. Any person paying annually ^3, becomes a 
member. The payment of $50 by a layman, of $25, 
by a clergymen, or of $20 by a lady or minor, consti- 
tutes them members for life. In 1832 there were 135 
life members, besides a good number of annual sub- 
scribers, which by their last report places the society 
in a flourishing condition. Meetings were held in the 
hall over the Arch on Central Wharf till 1830, when 
their church which is situated in Purchase Street on 
the easterly side of Fort Hill, was completed. The 
Church is opened every Sabbath at the usual hours 
for public worship, and is free for seamen — the body 
pews being expressly reserved for their accommodation. 
The building is of brick, 46 by 60 feet, and has a neat 
and appropriate tower. 
16* 



183 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



BETHEL CHURCH — NORTH SQUARE. 

This society was formed in 1829, by the exertions of 
the Rev. E. T. Taylor, a Methodist minister. Arrange- 
ments were first made for the use of the Old Methodist 
Meeting-house, in Methodist Alley to accommodate the 
seamen, where Mr. Taylor continued to preach to them 
till 1832. Under his preaching and particular care, the 
Society increased and found means through the liberality 
of merchants and others to erect a very neat and com- 
modious house of worship in North Square. The 
corner stone was laid Oct. 3, 1832, with appropriate 
ceremonies. It is of brick, 53 by 78 feet, with a square 
tower, on the top of which, it is intended to place a 
ship full rigged. 



GRACE CHURCH. 

Formed May, 1 829. 

Ministers. Settlement. Exit. Jge. 

1 Jamej Sabine, Feb. 1829 1830 — 

2 G. F. Haskins, Oct. 10, 1830 Oct. 1831 — 

3 Samuel M'Buiney, July, 1832 

The Rev. James Sabine minister of the Presbyterian 
Church in Piedmont Street, embraced the sentiments 
of the Protestant Episcopal Church in 1829, who with 
a majority of his society, together with communicants 
from other churches, formed themselves into a body 
under the name of Grace Church. By consent of the 
pew holders of the Piedmont Street Church, they com- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 18S 

menced their services on the anniversary of the Dorcus 
Society. They continued here, till April, 1832, when 
they left and removed to the Chapel in Bedford Street. 



EPISCOPAL MISSIONAKY CHAPEL. 

Franklin Avenue. 
Missionary, Asa Eaton, D. D. 

This Chapel was established by the Massachusetts 
Episcopal Mssionary Society in 1829, for the accom- 
modation of the poor. The sittings are all free. 
Connected with the Chapel is a flourishing Sunday 
School ; the benefits of which have been experienced 
hy about six hundred children. 

OTHBR CHRISTIAN SOCIETIES 

Assembling at different places in the city for public 
worship, besides those we have already enumerated, 
-would have been more fully recorded, had our infor- 
mation enabled us to do so. There is a Society of Uni- 
versalists at South Boston, who worship under the min- 
istry of the Rev. Benjamin Whitemore ; they have 
a house nearly completed. A missionary station is 
supported at a hall in Milton Street by the Evangelical 
Society for the Promotion of Piety and Morahty, and by 
the Boston Baptist Female Society, for missionary pur- 
poses ; at which place there is preaching on Sunday 

evenings. . ^ • x 

There is a branch of the Second Baptist Society 
established at South Boston, under the ministry of the 
Rev. Mr. Neal, who have a very neat and convenient 



184 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

house, in which they hold their meetings; and the 
Methodist Society also maintain a meeting occasionally 
at the extreme south part of the city. The Methodist 
Protestant Church hold divine worship in the ward 
room in Hanover Street. Meetings are occasionally 
held in the Chapel in Friend Street. Meetings are also 
held in the Mission House in Butolph Street ; — making 
the total number of worshipping assemblies fifty-jive, 
within the limits of Boston. 

BURIAL GROUNDS AND CEMETERIES. 

CHAPEL BURIAL GROUND. 

This lies at the north of the Stone Chapel, facing that 
portion of Tremont Street, directly opposite the man- 
sion of the late Lt. Gov. Phillips, who, with several of 
his family and predecessors, are entombed in this ground. 
This is the oldest burying field in the city — and Mr. 
Johnson, whose biography may be found in the history 
of Boston, as one of its earliest benefactors, was the 
first person buried here. There are many delapidated 
stones, with curious, though indistinct mementos of a 
former race of inhabitants. The tomb of Gov, John 
Winthrop, who died at the age of 62, in the year 1649, 
is an interesting reUc. Samuel Parkman, Esq. distin- 
guished as an eminent merchant, and the late Judge 
Thomas Dawes, who will long be remembered for wit 
and useful talents, among thousands of others, are en- 
tombed here. 

The monumental marbles, to which we referred, 
(p. 132) within the Chapel, are sacred to the memory 
of members of the families of Apthorp, and Shirley, 
and Vassall. The former is surmounted by a sculptored 
urn ; the two latter by busts of excellent workmanship 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 185 

The Inscription on the tomb of Vassall has some histori- 
cal allusions which particularly entitle it to a place in 
this work. 

' Sacred to the Memory of Samuel Vassall, Esq. of 
London, merchant, one of the original proprietors, of the 
lands of this country ; a steady and undaunted asserter 
of the liberties of England. In 1628, he was the first 
who boldly refused to submit to the tax of tonnage and 
poundage, an unconstitutional claim of the crown arbi- 
trarily imposed : for which (to the ruin of his family) 
his goods were seized and his person imprisoned by the 
Star Chamber Court. He was chosen to represent the 
city of London in two successive Parliaments which 
met April 13, and Nov 3, 1640. The ParUament in Ju- 
ly, 1641, voted him £10,445 12 2 for his damages, and 
resolved that he should be further considered for his 
personal sufferings ; but the rage of the times and the 
neglect of proper applications, since, have lost to his 
family only the honour of that vote and resolution. He 
was one of the largest subscribers to raise money against 
the Rebels in Ireland ; all these facts may be seen in 
the Journal of the House of Commons. He was the 
son of the gallant John Vassall, who in 1588, at his own 
expense, fitted out and commanded two ships of war, 
with which he joined the Royal Navy to oppose the 
Spanish Armada. This monument was erected by his 
great grandson, Florentine Vassall, Esq. of Jamaica, now 
residing in England, May, 1766. W. Tyler, sculpsit* 
London.' 

COPP's HILL BURIAL GROUND. 

The stranger will view the ancient burial ground, on 
the summit of an eminence at the north part of the city, 
with deep interest. Thousands of bodies are probably 



186 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

buried on this small piece of ground. An infinite va- 
riety of head stones, slabs, and decayed monuments, are 
presented to the eye, in great apparent confusion. One 
circumstance is observable here, which shows more 
perfection in the art of sculpture, nearly two centuries 
ago, than at later periods. Heraldic devices, on some 
ancient family tomb stones are beautifully executed, 
and are still in fine preservation; while the lettering 
and other operations of the chisel, on the grave stones^ 
present the rudest specimens of the art. Among the 
modern monuments, one of white marble, erected over 
the remains of Dr. Charles Jarvis, who died 1807, is 
worthy of notice. On one side is the following record: 
' Charles Jarvis died Nov. 15, 1807, aged 57 years ; 
a Physician — a Statesman, and an honest man, whose 
dignified deportment and sublime eloquence, unbound- 
ed philanthropy and other virtues, endear his memory 
to his fellow citizens.' 

SNOW-HILL CEMETERY. 

This is a new burial ground, recently laid out on the" 
north west side of Copp's Hill, adjoining Copp's Hill 
Burial Ground. Though it now appears irregular, the 
plan which we have seen of the proposed improvements, 
will certainly render it one of the most desirable and 
pleasant additions to that portion of the city. The 
entire aspect, will be changed, and instead of irregular 
excavations and high banks, ranges of beautifully con- 
structed tombs, pleasant gravel walks and rows of thrifty 
trees, will not only change the appearance of that 
side of the hill, but actually conduce to the health of 
the community. When completed, this lot will appear 
as part of the old yard, but infinitely more pleasant 
and regular. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 187 



GRANAR5 BURYING GROUND, 

So denominated from the circumstance of the town 
granary or pubUc breaad store house, having formerly- 
stood within the inclosure. Many monuments of gran^ 
ite, marble, &c. but principally of slate, are in a goo4 
state of preservation. 

The Cenotaph erected to the memory of Dr. Franklin, 
stands over the tomb in v/hich repose the remains of 
both of his parents. This monument was erected by 
a few citizens of Boston, in 1827, and the ceremony of 
laying the first stone was witnessed by a number of cit- 
izens, among whom were the governor and lieutenant 
governor of the commonwealth, and other officers of the 
government, the officers and many members of the 
Mechanic Association. An address was delivered by 
Gen. Henry A. S. Dearborn, which consisted princi- 
pally of an interesting sketch of the life and character 
of Franklin. A piece of plate, with an appropriate in- 
scription, and the Franklin School Medals, were plac- 
ed under the stone. The monument is a pyramid, 25 
feet high, and formed of blocks of granite of about '?ix 
tons weight each, taken from the Bunker Hill Monu- 
ment quarry. It was erected under the direction of Mr. 
Willard, the architect. 

A beautiful white marble monument, of superior work- 
manship, over the remains of Gov. Sumner, who died 
1799, is a prominent object. Gov. Bellingham, renowned 
in the history of the colony of Massachusetts, was en- 
tombed on the west side of this yard, Dec. 7. 1672.' The 
family of Bellingham being extinct, at the death of Gov 
James Sullivan, who died Dec. 10, 1808, the selectmen 
.ot the town of Boston presented it to h^s family, and a^ 



188 PICTURE OF BOSTON, 

new monument, consisting of two marble slabs, the up- 
permost supported on pillars, was erected, on which the 
original obituary notice of Gov. Bellingham was trans- 
cribed. The tombs of the celebrated Dr. John Jeffry ; 
Peter Faneuil, who presented the Market House to the 
town of Boston, — whose portrait may be seen in Fan- 
euil Hall ; — the Rev, Joseph Eckley, and Judge Sewall, 
all of whom were distinguished men, whose histories 
are intimately interwoven with the history of the city,, 
may be recognised in the Granary. 



COMMON, OR EOYLSTON ST. BURYING GROUND. 

There is nothing remarkable in the general appear- 
ance of the monuments of this ground, to excite the an- 
tiquary. It may be found at the south border of the 
Common, facing Boylston Street. The Catholic friends 
improved this ground considerably in former years. 



SOUTH E2TD BURIAL GROUND. 

Located on the south side of Washington Street, at 
the south end of the city, near Roxbury. This has un- 
dergone so many excellent improvements under the de- 
voted attentions of the superintendant of burial grounds, 
that it bids fair to become the Pere la Chaise of the city,- 
Trees and shrubbery are planted, and such regularity 
observed in the construction of tombs, and in the ranges 
of graves, as to meet the approbation of the citizen as 
well as stranger, There is one very large tomb near 
the centre of the yard, expressly for children. 

At South Boston, there is the South Boston burial 
ground, belonging to the inhabitants, having eight tombs, 
and one at the house of Industry, having 6 tombs. A 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 189 

Catholic burying ground also, connected with St. Au- 
gustine's chapel, South Boston. 

CEMETERIES. 

One under Christ Church, north end, having 33 tombs. 
One under St. Paul's Church, Tremont Street, having 
65 tombs. There is an elegant monument in this, ei'cct- 
ed to the memory of Gen. Joseph Warren, who was 
slain on Bunker Hill — his remains are entombed here. 
One under Trinity Church, having 55 tombs. 
One under Park Street Church, having 30 tombs. 
One under the Stone Chapel, having 21 tombs. 
One under St. Matthew's Chapel, having 19 tombs. 
Twenty-nine in the Stone Chapel yard. 
One hundred and twenty-one, 'in Copp's Hill yard. 
Sixty-six tombs in Copp's Hill new yard. 
Thirty-four in Charter Street, new ground. 
One hundred and forty-nine in Boylston Street yard. 
Two hundred and three in the Granary yard. 
Six in the House of Industry yard. South Boston. 
Eight in the South Boston burial ground. 
Fifteen in another yard. South Boston. 
Forty in the new yard on the neck. 
Twenty-two in Snow Hill yard. 
Total number of tombs, nine hundred and sixty-six ; 
which are capable of holding twenty-two thousand and 
forty-eight bodies, by estimation. 

As a subject of deep interest to the citizens of Boston, 
and one of great attraction to the stranger, it may be prop- 
er in connection with this subject, to say something here of 

MOUNT AUBURN. 

The tract of land which has received the name of 
Mount Auburn, was formerly known by the name of 
17 



190 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Stone's "Woods, and subsequently by that of Sweet 
Auburn, Its distance from Boston is about four miles, 
and is situated on the southerly side of the main road 
leading from Cambridge to Watertown, and is partly 
within the limits of each of those towns. This tract was 
purchased by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society^ 
in 1S31, and includes about one hundred acres, extend- 
ing from the road, nearly to the banks of Charles River. 
The consecration of this ground took place, Sept. 24, 
1831, with great cei'emony. An address suited to the 
occasion was delivered by the Hon, Judge Story. A 
portion of the land situated next to the road, and now 
under cultivation, constitutes the Experimental Garden 
of the Society. The inner portion, which is set apart 
for the purposes of a Cemetery, is covered throughout 
most of its extent, with a vigorous growth of forest trees, 
many of them of large size, and comprising an unusual 
variety of kinds. This tract is beautifully undulating 
in its surface, containing a number of bold eminences, 
steep acclivities, and deep shadowy vallies, A remark- 
able natural ridge with a level surface runs through the 
ground from south-east to north-west and has for many 
years been known as a secluded and favorite walk. The 
principal eminence, called Mount Auburn in the plan, 
is one hundred and twenty-five feet above the level of 
Charles river, and commands from its summit one of the 
finest prospects which can be obtained in the environs 
of Boston. On one side is the city in full view, con- 
nected at its extremities with Charlestown and Roxbury. 
The serpentine course of Charles River, with the cul' 
tivated hills and fields rising beyond it, and having the 
Blue Hills of Milton in the distance, occupies another 
portion of the landscape. The village of Cambridge, 
with the venerable edifices of Harvard University, are 
situated about a mile to the eastward. On the north. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 191 

at a very short distance, Fresh Pond appears, a hand- 
some sheet of water, finely diversified by its woody 
and irregular shores. Country seats and cottages seen 
in various directions, and especially those on the elevat- 
ed lands at Watertown and Brighton, add much to the 
picturesque effect of the scene. 

The grounds of the Cemetery have been laid out 
with intersecting avenues, so as to render every part 
of the wood accessible. These avenues are curved and 
variously winding in their course, so as to be adapted 
to the natural inequalities of the surface. By this 
arrangement, the greatest economy of the land is pro- 
duced, combining at the same time the picturesque 
effect of landscape gardening. Over the more level 
portions, the avenues are made twenty feet wide, and 
are suitable for carriage roads. The more broken and 
precipitous parts are approached by foot paths, which 
are six feet in width. The passage-ways are smoothly 
gravelled, and are to be planted on both sides with 
flowers and ornamental shrubs. Lots of ground, con- 
taining each three hundred square feet, are set off, as 
family burial places, at suitable distances on the sides 
of the avenues and paths. The perpetual right of in- 
closing and of using these lots, as places of sepulture, 
Is conveyed to the purchasers of them, by the Horticul- 
tural Society. About two hundred of these lots have 
been sold at ^60 each, and an additional sum received 
in premiums for the right of choice. A substan- 
tial fence 7 ft, high is carried round the whole tract, 
having for its principal entrance a gateway, finished in 
the Egyptian style 25 ft. high, and including in its plan 
two apartments for the use of the porter and other attend- 
ants. A public lot is inclosed, on one of the avenues, in 
which single interments are permitted on the pay- 
ment of $10 for each. The price of a lot« with tha 



192 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

liberty to use one foot in width on each boundary, for 
the erection of a wall or fence, is $60. A number 
of elegant monuments of marble and granite are erected, 
and others are in progress. Among which is one 

TO 

HANNAH ADAMS, 

HISTORIAN OF THE JEWS 

AND 

REVIEWER OF THE CHRISTIAN SECTS, 

THIS MONUMENT IS ERECTED 

BY HER FEMALE FRIENDS. 
FIRST TENANT 

OF 

MOUNT AUBURN. 
She Died Dec. 13, 1831. 

AGED 76. 




This enterprise, has been received with great favor 
by the pubUc, and Mount Auborn promises to become 
in a short time, the most beautiful spot in the environs 
of Boston, and unequalled in its kind, in ouj* whole 
country. 



STATUE OF WASHINGTON. 



The plan for erecting a monument to the memory of 
Washington, in Boston, first originated with gentlemen 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 19^ 

who had been associates with him in early life, A meet- 
ing was called, and a society organized, under the title 
of the Washington Monument Association, April 27, 
1811. The measures, adopted to raise funds, were made 
with a view first to erect an equestrian statue ; but find- 
ing the amount collected would be insufficient for that 
purpose, it was changed to a pedestrian statue. The 
amount raised by subscriptions v/as only J|;8,0S8 34; 
but by the good management of the board of trustees, 
this sum was increased by interest to J|16,313 34, by the 
time the statue was finished. It cost, together with the 
pedestal and the temple in which it is placed, a little 
more than $15,000. It is the work of Chantry. 

As the visitor enters the State-house at the south front, 
he beholds the Statue, through the arched passage 
way that leads from the Doric hall to the apartment 
where it is placed. It is free to the public at all times, 
with the exception of Sundays, Thanksgiving and Fast- 
days, on which the house is closed, in obedience to an 
order of the General Court. 

It is said many who have often seen Washington at 
various periods from the commencement of the war of 
the Revolution, to his retirement from the Presidency, 
and who have carefully examined the statue, are unan- 
imous in their opinion of its strong resemblance to the 
great original, particularly at the period of time which 
the statue is intended to commemorate. It was first un- 
covered for public inspection on the 26th of November, 
1827, in presence of the Trustees of the Association, 
who held a special meeting on the occasion, at the State- 
house, in the Hall consecrated to the memory of the 
Father of his country. 

At this meeting, it was Voted, That the Trustees of 
said Association, by virtue of the powers vested in them, 
17* 



194 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

do hereby confide, and trust, as well the said edifice, 
erected at their expense, as the noble statue, the work 
of the first artist in Europe, to the care and patriotism of 
the government of the State of Massachusetts, for the 
use and benefit of the citizens of said state, to all future 
generations, toith the following provisos, that the said 
room shall never be appropriated to any other use, or 
the exhibition of any other monument, or work of art, 
than the Statue of Washington ; and that in case the 
edifice, of which the hall of Washington forms a part, 
shall at any future time cease to be used for the pur- 
poses to which it is now devoted, the Trustees, or their 
successors, or on failure of them, the Mayor and Alder- 
men of the city of Boston, shall have a right to take 
possession of the statue aforesaid, and [of its pedestal, 
and to remove the same to any other situation within 
the City of Boston, which they may deem appropriate. 
The Authorities of the State signified their acceptance 
of the statue on the eighth of January, 1828. Resolved, 
that the Legislature of this Commonwealth accept the 
Statue of Washington upon the terms and conditions on 
which it is offered by the Trustees of the Washington 
Monument Association, and entertains a just sense of 
the patriotic feeling of those individuals, who have done 
honor to the State by placing in it a statue of the man, 
whose hfe was among the greatest of his country's bles- 
sings, and whose fame is her proudest inheritance. 

MILITARY. 

The Mihfia of Boston, which has always held a high 
rank in point of discipline and good order, consists of 
three Regiments, composing the 3d Brigade of the 1st 
Division of the Massachusetts Militia. By the laws of 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 195 

this State, persons are enrolled from the age of 18 to 45 
years, and the annual inspection takes place on the 1st 
Tuesday in May, when the rules and articles are pub- 
licly read to the companies. Each captain is required 
to parade his company on two several days in addition 
to the annual inspection. Persons between the age of 
35 and 45 are exempt from military duty by paying an- 
nually to the City Treasurer the sum of two dollars, 
and exhibiting his receipt to the captain previous to the 
May training. There are attached to this Brigade, 
three companies of Artillery, one company of Light 
Dragoons, a company of Sea Fencibles, eight compa- 
nies of Light Infantry, and an excellent band of music. 

The Laboratory near the south west corner of the 
Common, supplied by the State, is well furnished with 
artillery of different callibre, and every necessary ap- 
pendage in complete readiness ; and, at three hours 
notice, Boston can bring into the field, a larger and 
better train of artillery, than could have been produced 
from the whole state, at the commencement of the 
Revolutionary War. 

The following companies by permission of the City 
Government, keep their Armories in Faneuil Hall, 
which are neatly fitted and arranged in the best of 
order. 

THE ANCIENT AND HONORABLE ARTILLERY COMPANY, 

This Company is composed mostly of commissioned 
officers, was founded in 1G37 and incorporated, 1638. Its 
two first and principal members were Capt. Robert 
Keayne and Maj, Gen. Robert Sedgwick, both of whom 
were, before their emigration, members of the Honor- 
able Artillery Company in London. Many of the early 
members were highly distinguished in office, in the vari- 
ous towns of the Colony of Massachusetts. The roll book 



ijH^ picTnu: or uoston. 

^ho>vs that it w.h oxtiviuoly ilitVusovl ami t ho Hst of otVi- 
otMs from year to voar conlirins tho faot that it was 
w'uloly \usoful "m thoso days in tho Coloj\y. Aftor tho 
uecossion of Cromwtlly prohaMy but low of tho most 
distiniiuishod Piu"itai\s oamo to this country, and thoro- 
foio. tho rv»ll does not exhibit much annual accession 
of nuMnbers; but after tho lestoiaiiou it ap[)ears tho 
n^embers increased, and the con>pai>y piospered un- 
til Sir Kdward Andivs' arrival, when it was teniporarily 
dissolved, and revived again iauueili ately [on his de- 
position. Several of the early nuMubers were distin- 
i;uished men in Kujjlaitd as well as here, ami several 
on returning to Kuijlatvd were appointed to hi;:;h otUces 
in Crotuw ell's arujy. 

Fi-vMU \09l to 1774, the eoitipany eontln\K>il its opera- 
tions and was o-ioatly beneticial in the dillusion of nnli- 
tary knowledge. Its prosperity during that period was 
markcil by alternate years of great success and severe 
depression. During this period they disposed of their 
lands in Kutland and Dunstable. The villagv^ near the 
Nashua Factories i^i on the san\e prenuses, it is be- 
lieved. They sold those lands about 1730, Itaving pre- 
viously leased them eleven years successively for 
a barrel of ciiier annually, but they never receivcil the 
paynunU until afler our revolutionary war, during 
which their meetings were again suspended, and re- 
vived just before the Shays' rebellion. 

Their nun\bers and prospects have, again, since that 
time varied. Their friends have augnu^nted, their dis- 
cipline has unitormly incorporated the improvements of 
the age from time to time, and now stands highly re- 
spectable. They have borne on their roll, otlicers of 
every grade from (unernors, Lt. tiovcrnors, and t«en- 
crals, to Ensigns, and no .«tmall number of privates of 
<'very profession and occupation. 



On the first Mon'lay in Jnmt, hccjiriiiu'^ U> chartrjr, 
thh rjHtn>Any cA'AahmUi liM anuivcrf/^ry by '4ti'ut<listy; 
icUi^umH nxttrc'iMiA at church, aiid hy a pu!>Uc para/j*; 
on thy Cotnuufii in itmrnncA', of the Oovftrnor, J>t. Oov- 
erfior, and the iiunnijurn of tJwj J^'j^iduturc. 

Tiili company c^mifKWjtj th<j Goverru^r'H Otiard, ^^nd 
in not «til>ject U/ any '/h<;r 'i<jly than t/> MUtiA hi« Kx- 
(Ui\U'ji<:y. TU<i Cadet Hand ix atta':b<j'i tw tt»i» a^m- 
pany, 

JuMUAMi, Ma/ J I, I7<r7, 
u'vtTO* MOHT isrAjtrcr. 

Thin company i« ((frmf'A of uoU'fAHuuAmtnit'A officer* 
bfelonj^inj^in ihc diff<;rent rx;njpanic» in S^tt^Uin.^arAi'jim' 
jK''pjenUy 'lrx;f> not, a» a {x>dy, <x#ni;titijte any part of our 
UiiViinry force. 

JjietiUliiSd, I2J2. 



19S PICTURE OF BOSTON- 

CITY GUARDS. 

Instituted, 1821. 

Mechanic riflemen. 
Inilhutedj March 21, 1831. 

PLACES OF AMUSEMENT 

The puritan spirit of our ancestors was transfused 
into the first and second generations which succeeded 
them : nothing like the fashionable amusements of our 
day found any countenance with them. The tirst at- 
tempt, in 1750, to estabUsh a Theatre in Boston, was fol- 
lowed by a law of the Provinces prohibiting theatrical 
exhibitions, under penalties. During the siege, the 
British entertained themselves with amusements of a 
theatrical sort in Faneuil Hall. From that time nd 
traces are discovered of a theatre in Boston till 1789, 
when the newspapers contain intimations of a design to 
establish one. An effort was made to repeal the prohib- 
itory laws, which proved unsuccessful, and the expe- 
dient of exhibiting plays under the title of Moral Lec- 
tures, was adopted in the fall of 1792. The patronage 
afforded to these exhibitions was so liberal, that the 
plan of erecting a commodious brick building, purposely 
for a theatre, was easily carried into execution. — 
This was the commencement of the 

BOSTON THEATRE, 

Situated on the corner of Federal and Franklin Streets. 
This building when first erected, was 140 feet long, 
61 wide, and 40 feet in height. In 1825, an ad- 
dition was made to the west end of the building, of 
about 12 feet, with corresponding improvements in the 
interior. It was first opened Feb. 3, 1794, with th» 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 199 

tragedy of Gustavus Vasa Erickson, the deliverer of 
Sweden, under the management of Mr. Charles Stuart 
Powell. In consequence of a misunderstanding be- 
tween Mr. P. and the proprietors, J. S. Tyler was 
appointed to the management, but not succeeding, he 
relinquished, and was succeeded by John Brown Wil- 
liamson. The following memoranda shows the various 
changes and incidents that have taken place in this 
house, and will serve as reference for the lovers of the 
drama. 

Mr. Williamson having failed as manager of the 
Federal Street Theatre, it was taken by Messrs Barrett 
and Harper, in 1797, During the season this Theatre 
was destroyed by fire, on the afternoon of Feb. 2, 1798. — 
Messrs. B, and H, apphed for the use of the Haymar- 
ket Theatre, and were refused.* 

The Theatre having been rebuilt, was opened under 
the management of Mr. Hodgkinson, Oct. 29, 1798. — 
The pieces performed were a Prelude, called ' The 
First Night's apology, or All in a Bustle,' ' Wives as 
they Were,' and the ' Purse.' 

April 29, 1799.— Mr. Hodgkinson having failed in the 
Federal Street concern, removed the Company to the 
Haymarket Theatre, which he opened with the 'Stran- 
ger,' and « Plymouth Rock.' This was the last season 
Mr. Hodgkinson performed in Boston. 

Oct. 1799.— Theatre opened under the management 

* The friends of Mr. Powell raised by subscription, a sum sufficient 
lo build of wood (he Haymarket Theatre, which was said at that time 
to have been ' the most spacious and convenient ever erected in Amer- 
ica.' It was located on Tremont Street, near the lower end of the 
Mall, and was opened Dec. 26, 1796. This Theatre was discontinued 
ID the course of a few years. The citizens in the neighborhood, aided 
by the proprietors of the Boston Theatre, raised by jubscriptioni, * luw 
•uflicient to purchase and remove the building. 



200 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

of Mr. G. L. Barrett, with the comedy of < Laugh when 
you Can.' Mr. B. failed before the season expired. 

Oct. 27, 1800. — Theatre opened under the manage- 
ment of Mr. Whitlock, who, after experiencing a loss 
of about $4000, relinquished the concern. This season 
introduced to a Boston audience the celebrated Mrs. 
Jones. 

Nov. 30, 1801.— The Theatre was opened under the 
joint management of Messrs. Powell and Harper. ' The 
School for Scandal,' and ' Poor Soldier,' were the en- 
tertainments. 

Oct. 27, 1802.— The Theatre opened under the man- 
agement of Mr. Snelling Powell, with the ' Poor Gen- 
tleman,' and ' Purse,' The Theatre continued under 
the sole management of Mr. S. Powell, until Oct. 1806, 
when it opened under the joint management of Messrs. 
Powel, Bernard, and Dickinson, (since Dickson,) who 
continued it till 1811, when Mr. Bernard relinquished 
his part, and Messrs. Powell and Dickson retained the 
management of it for 11 years. During the season of 
1800, Mr. Caulfield and Mrs. Stanley, both excellent 
performers were engaged by Mr. Bernard in England 
for the Boston Theatre. Mrs. Stanley first appeared as 
Letitia Hardy in the ' Belle's Stratagem,' and Mr. 
Caulfield in the part of Rolla in ' Pizarro.' Seignr. 
Cipriane, Ballet Master, &c, and Mr. Vining, a Vocalist, 
were likewise brought out from England by Mr. Ber- 
nard that season. In 1816—17 Mr. Dickson retired 
from the stage, and has performed only twice since ; in 
April, 1819, he appeared in the character of Hardy, in 
the ' Belle's Stratagem,' and Oglow, in ' Timour the 
Tartar,' for Mrs. Powell's benefit : and in May, 1821, 
he performed Sir Robert Bramble, in the ' Poor Gen- 
tleman,' Will Steady, in the ' Purse,' and Tag, in the 
' Spoil'd Child,' this was likewise for the benefit of Mrs. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 201 

Powell, who was prevented from appearing before her 
friends on that occasion, in consequence of the decease 
of Mr. Powell, which occurred on the 8th of the pre- 
vious month. 

Mr. Dickson, although he retired from the stage, con- 
tinued in the management. The season of 1817 com- 
menced under the joint direction of Messrs. Powell, 
Dickson, and Duflf: this connexion continued for three 
years, when Mr. Duff relinquished his share in the 
concern. Under their management, the celebrated 
Edmund Kean, first appeared in Boston, and was re- 
ceived with unbounded admiration. The tickets were 
bought up at unheard of prices, and, being sold at pub- 
lic auction, the surplus above the regular price, was 
devoted to charitable purposes.* It was on this occa- 
sion that Kean pronounced that high compliment upon 
Boston, of being ' The Literary Emporium of the West- 
ern World,' His first appearance was on Monday, 
Feb. 12, 1821, in the character of Richard III, and the 
cash receipts were $1,072 27. His first engagement of 
nine nights, gave him $3,302 68, and his second en- 
gagement of seven nights, $2,148 58 ; making the 
total receipts for 16 nights, $5,451 26. At the termi- 
nation of this engagement he left Boston in high credit ; 
but on his return, towards the close of the theatrical 
season, (the novelty having worn off,) he met with a 
rather cooler reception. There was no contention for 
tickets and the display of beauty and fashion was not 
so splendid as before. He was announced for Monday 
May 21, to play 'King Lear,' but on account of his 
non-arrival, it was postponed to Wednesday the 23d. 

* The sum realized and appropriated in this way, from the sales 
of eight nii^hts, was no less than $2,660 25. 

18 



203 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

The cash receipts were $469 621-2. On Thursday 
the 24th, he appeared as Jaffier in ' Venice Preserved,' 
and the receipts were only $189, 87 1-2. The next 
day he was announced to appear in ' Richard III,' but 
from the appearance of the house before the time of 
beginning, he decUned dressing for the part, and when 
it was time to raise the curtain, he peremptorily refused 
to act, and left the theatre on account of the few per- 
sons then in it. Kean quit the city sans ceremonie next 
morning for New York, and very speedily embarked 
for England, with imprecalions showing his contempt 
for America, and every thing connected with it. 

After the decease of Mr. Powell, the management 
devolved upon Mr. Dickson, (for Mrs. Powell, who 
was principally interested, and himself,) aided by Mr. 
Kilner, as Acting Manager; this continued until the 
expiration of their lease from the proprietors, in May,. 
1824. The next season, Messrs. Kilner and Finn un- 
dertook the management, for themselves and Mrs. 
Powell, on a lease of three years. 

In 1825 Kean again returned to this country, to seek 
the favour and countenance of the American people, 
whom in his days of glory he had derided. Having 
been permitted to appear in New York, he ventured ta 
make an engagement here, and was announced to ap- 
pear in ' Richard III,' on Wednesday Dec. 21, 1825, but 
the public indignation was so strongly excited, by his 
previous misconduct, (not only here but in England,) 
that they determined, much as they admired his talents, 
that he should never perform in Boston again. The 
tickets were all sold and the house was crowded at an 
early hour. When the curtain rose a tumultuous up- 
roar pervaded the Theatre, until Mr. Finn, one of the 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 20? 

managers, came forward and intimated by signs and 
words that Mr. Kean wished to make an humble apology 
in person to the audience. This intimation though not 
heard, was sufficiently understood to excite the min- 
gled shouts of Kean's friends and his opponents. Kean 
however came forward, and with his hat under his arm 
presented himself to the audience, bowed most submis- 
sively, and remained some moments in the posture of 
supplication ; his countenance exhibited the paleness of 
shame, fear, and despair. There was a desire expressed 
by some of the audience that he should be heard, but 
the opposition was so loud, that whether they were more 
numerous or not, they carried their point, and Kean, 
after remaining upon the stage a minute or two, with- 
drew amid a shower of nuts, cake and other similar 
missiles. While this pantomine was performing wdthin 
the theatre, a numerous concourse of people had gath- 
ered in the streets, around and near the house, anxious 
to know how affairs proceeded within : most of them 
drawn thither from curiosity, and some no doubt bent 
on mischief, for great numbers forced their way into 
the house, despite of doorkeepers and constables. Kean 
was thus driven from the stage, a general riot ensued, 
and damage was done to the Theatre, chandeliers, &c, 
to the amount of near ,'|fc;10()0. The cash taken for this 
night, was .$943 50. The theatre was closed for repairs 
until Monday Dec. 26, when it re-opened with ' George 
Barnwell,' ' Rumfustian,' and ' Forty Thieves.' 

Those who rejoiced in the result of this experiment 
Tipon popular feelings, (for such it certainly was,) so 
far as regards the expulsion of ivlr. Kean, equally re- 
gretted the occurrences which took place after he had 
retired from the Theatre. Those, who calmly consider 
the circumstances, we are coufident will be far fi'om 



204 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

agreeing with those who joined in the outcry that Bos- 
ton had disgraced its name by these proceedings. 

The Boston Theatre opened in 182S, under the man- 
agement of Mr. Charles Young for the Proprietors. 
This season proved a most unfortunate speculation. 
An opposition was carried on between this and the 
Tremont Theatre with great spirit, and with great loss. 
Stars were engaged not merely on their own terms, 
but frequently at much more than their modesty would 
permit them to ask. Second rate performers, both male 
and female, had their hundred dollars per night! Nei- 
ther our limits or inclination permit us to give a detailed 
account of the opposition ; suffice it to say, both parties 
having sustained heavy losses,^ became tired of carrying 
on the war, and a kind of compromise took place. The 
lessees of the Tremont Theatre engaged the Federal 
Street House tor three years, with the privilege of 
continuing it a fourth year, at an annual rent of ^3,000. 
No regular theatrical performance took place in it, from 
the commencement of their lease, until Nov. 1832, when 
it w^as re -opened for a short time at reduced prices of 
admission. A new lease has been granted by the Trus- 
tees, to the Corporation of the Tremont Theatre for 
five years from July 1S33, at a rent of $3,500 per 
annum. We understand it to be the intention to con- 
tinue the Theatre open a greater part of the year, 

* During (his season (he proprietors of (he Boston Theatre, were 
assessed (to rneeKlie losses) first §lOO, and (i)en $500 per share, which 
on sixty shares, made their total loss $36,000, It is hut justice to add 
that they kept up the hi^jh credit of the estahlishment, by promptly 
meeting all demands against it. It is said the loss ftf the Lessees of 
the Tremont Theatre, fully equalled those of the Federal Street 
House. The opposition is we presume now at an end, and the Federal 
Street Proprietors are receiving six per cent interest on the par value 
of th<?ir slock, exclusive of their free admiss^iou ticket which extend* 
to both Houses. 




a^^j.'U'^* ^•^jfeA:riu«.. 






ztjcirtt.. 



„^ I,Si^^M*<td f^jtii'40l»i£^^^*i*^* <^J&i**^ 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 205 

^•hich will be an accommodation to that part of the 
jplay-goino- community, who may feel unable or unwil- 
ling to pa^ a dollar for a box ticket, or half a dollar for 
a pit, as it will atTord them the opportunity of vi.siting 
a highly reputable Theatre at half the usual price. 

It is a fact, worthy of record, and liiglily creditable 
to the Managers, tluit, from the time of Mr. Powell's 
undertaking the management, until the present date, 
there never has been an instance known of a peribrm- 
er's salary, a tradesman's bill, or any other demand 
against the Boston Theatre being refused payment. 
This punctuality gave a respectability and credit to the 
establishmeiut, that has not been surpassed by any other 
in this country or in England. It likewise enabled the 
the Managers to bring from England, performers of the 
first respectability, both professionally and individually. 
During Mr. Dickson's connexion with the management, 
he made several voyages to England, and brought out, 
at different periods, the following talented performers, 
Mr. Chas. Young, Mr. DutT, ' Mr. Drake, Mr. H. 
Williams, Mr. Vaughan, Mr. Dykes, Mr. Entwistle, 
Mr. Fisher, JVfrs. Young, Mrs. Duff, Mrs. and Miss 
Drake, Miss Poole, Mrs. Doige, &c, &c. He likewise 
engaged in England, Mr. and Mrs. F. Brown, and 
' though last, not least,' Mr. Finn. 

WASHINGTON THEATRE. 

Erected in the Washington Gardens on Tremont Street, 
in 1819, was first called the JImphit/ieatre and after- 
wards the City Theatre. At first the managers of the 
Boston Theatre were interested in the performances, 
but in a short time the control over it passed into the 
hands of several amateurs, and the insfitutions became 
in some sort rivals to each other. The house was con- 
18* 



2(y6 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

structed so as to answer for a Circus, and was several 
times opened for Equestrian performances. It was taken 
down in 1829. 

TKEMONT THEATRE. 

This Theati-e, from its location and construction, is 
the most popular in Boston, and receives patronage from 
the most wealthy and fashionable. The project for 
establishing this house, was set on foot by persons who 
believed the time had arrived when something should 
be done to raise the character of the Boston stage ; and 
it would seem that no sufficient effort could be made 
on the part of the proprietors of the Boston Theatre 
to convince all concerned, that a new theatre was not 
demanded by the public voice. Meetings were held, 
and a company formed, in February ; proposals were 
advertised for a plan, on the first of March ; the work 
immediately commenced, and the corner stone of the 
^Tremont Theatre was laid on the morning of the 
4th of July, 1827. The building rose with a rapidity 
almost unexampled ; the exterior was nearly completed, 
and the interior was ready for the reception of company 
on the evening of Monday, Sept. 24, and was opened 
under the management of Mr. Wm. Pelby, whose exer- 
tions had been instrumental in originating the plan. The 
entertainments selected, were the comedy of ' Wives 

* In the selection of a title, the Trustees ^ave general satisfaction, as 
the name of Trcmont had become nearly extinct liirough the various 
alterations in our city. It was the first Ens^lish name given to Boston, 
and is of native oiigin. Shawmul presented to the view of the emi- 
grants who first located at Chariestown, the appearance of three large 
hills; one in the norlh, one far to the east, and another forming the 
whole western extremity of the peninsula. On the last, which refers 
to Beacon hill, were thrte lofhj and majestic eminences in a contiguous 
range. The combination of these circumstances doubtless gave rue 
to the name ' Trea-Mount.'' 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 207 

ti9 they were, and Maids as they Are,' concluding with 
the farce of ' The Lady and the Devil,' — After a bril' 
liant overture composed and arranged by Mr. Ostinelli, 
the curtain was drawn up, and displayed a most splendid 
scene, when Mr. W. R. Blake came forward and deliv- 
•ered the Prize Address. 

The general form of this edifice is that of a parallelo- 
gram, fronting upon Tremont Street, the extent of v/hich 
front is 79 feet, depth 135 feet. About 75 feet in the 
rear, the stage part of the building is widened about 12 
feet, making a jog upon each side. The front is of 
Quincy and Hallowell granite ; the side walls are of 
brick, and 18 inches in thickness. The front is in im- 
itation of the Ionic order, with four pilasters and two 
antjes, one on each angle, supporting an entablature 
and pediment, and elevated on a basement 17 feet. The 
height of the pilasters is 25 feet 4 inches, including their 
bases and caps ; their width 3 feet 3 inches, projecting 
one foot from the wall. The height of the pediment is 
about 18 feet from the level cornice to the ridge- There 
are three wide arched doors in the basement, and two 
windows, one at each corner, to light the ticket offices. 
On entering the arched doors in front, there opens a 
wide hall, from which a flight of steps ascends to the 
dress circle boxes, and here are the lobbies for the 
promenade, and separate drawing rooms, communicating 
with an elegant saloon in the centre. The architect 
was Mr. Isaiah Rogers. The prices of admission are 
$1 to the boxes, 75 cents to the third tier, 50 cents to 
the pit, and 25 cents to the gallery. 

At the close of the first theatrical season, Mr. Pelby 
withdrew from the management, and relinquished his 
interest in the lease of this house to an association of 
gentlemen, who opened it on the 1st of Sept. 1828, under 
the management of Lucius Junius Booth. During the 



208 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

summer, the interior of the edifice underwent very 
extensive alterations, particularly that part of it design-' 
ed for the accommodation of the auditory — effectually 
remedying every defect which experience and obser- 
vation had pointed out. For elegance, comfort, com- 
modiousness, and perfect adaption to its proper object, 
this theatre may challenge comparison with any simi- 
lai* establishment in the Union. Towards the close 
of the season Mr. Booth withdrew from the Tremont, 
and the stage management passed into the hands of Mr. 
Alex. M. Wilson, who retained it until the close of the 
following season. Mr. Richard Russell then succeeded 
as manager, and commenced on the 6th of September, 
1830. Under his direction. Master Burke made his 
first appearance (Jan. 31, 1831) in Boston. An unpar- 
allelled excitement prevailed to witness the personations 
of this precocious genius. He played twenty-five 
successive nights to full and fashionable houses. Dur- 
ing his engagement, tickets were sold at auction, at 
advanced prices; which, not unfrequently, fell into the 
hands of speculators, who found purchasers at enor- 
mous profits.* This extraordinary youth was confined 
to no particular range of character ; he excelled both 
in the tragic and comic scene, besides possessing un- 
common musical abilities, as evinced in his astonishing 
performances on the violin. 

In July 1831, the management was transferred to Mr. 
George H. Barrett. The first year under his control, 
was very auspicious, and decidedly the most successful 
season, which for years had marked the progress of 

* On this occasion the sums paid above the regular price of tickets 
amounted to $2,238 ; and from an estimate made by a gentleman, who 
has been an observer of these things, it is made to appear that not less 
than $15,000 liad been paid to speculators and others, aboTe the regular 
prices of admission, to gain acteu to the performancef of Matter 
Ksrkc and Mr. Kean* 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



209 



theatricals. The establishment in 1832, continued under 
the superintendence of this gentleman, who, judging 
public opinion, appeared to be well qualified lor the busi- 
ness, and gave general satisfaction. The engagements 
for the season, attached some importance to the his- 
tory of the Tremont Theatre, in consequence of the 
introduction of Operas in a style of excellence hitherto 
unattcmpted. These musical entertainments, consider- 
ing the combined strength of talent with which they 
were brought forward, form an era in the annals of our 
stage. The leading vocalists were Mr. Sinclair, Mr. 
Horn, Mrs. Austin, and Miss Hughes, whose merits 
individually are well known and appreciated. Added 
to these, were a full and efficient Orchestra, under the 
direction of Mr. Ostinelli. The vocal department was 
superintended by Mr. Comer, and the stage arrange- 
ments, were under the direction of Mr. Barrymore. 

WARREN THEATRE. 




This building, situated on the corner of Portland and 
Traverse Streets, was erected in 1831, by W. & T. L. 



210 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Stewarts, for Equestrian performances. It was first 
opened in Feb. 1832, under the name of the American" 
Amphitheatre, and was continued only for a short time, 
when a lease was made to Mr. Wm. Pelby for three 
years. Mr. Pelby made very extensive alterations and 
improvements to accommodate it to dramatic perform- 
ances, and opened July 3, 1832, as a half price house, 
under the name of Warren Theatre. The enterprise 
thus far, under the management of Mr. P. has proved 
successful. 

MUSEUM. 

We find th:it the first movement towards a Museum 
in Boston, commenced by exhibiting a few wax figures 
at the American Coffee House, in State Street, about the 
year 1791. Mr. Daniel Bow en was the proprietor, v.ho 
moved his curiosities to a hall over a school house in 
Bronifield Street, vvhere it took the appellation of Co- 
lurnbian Museum in 1795. January 15, 1803, just as it 
had become profitable to the proprietor, the whole was 
nearly destroyed by fire. Mr. Bowen began another 
collection at the corner of Milk and Oliver Streets, the 
following May, and in connection with W. M. S. Doyle,, 
erected an edifice in ISOfi, five stories high, near the 
Stone Chapel, to which the Museum was removed, and 
company received on Thanksgiving evening, 27th Nov. 
The whole fabric, together v.ith its valua'ole contents,, 
was destroyed by fire Jan. 16, 1^07. Another build- 
ing which is now called the Columbian Hall, was 
erected by the proprietors, on the same ground, and 
ready for visitors June 2, 1807. This collection was 
sold to the proprietors of the New England Museum, 
Jan. 1, 1825, for about ,'j>)5000, and this closes the history 
of the first Museum in Boston. The most extensive 
one now existing is the ^^ew Englond JJuscum. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON, 



211 




NEW K^r GLAND MU 



:uM, 



No. 76, Court Street. 



This extensive collection was first opened on the 
4th of July, 181S, from which time it has been 
constantly accumulating. It is conducted by E. A. 
Greenwood, Esq. under the provisions of a charter, 
granted by the legislature in Feb. 1818, and owned 
in shares. It commenced with the collection, formerly 
owned by the late Mr. Edward Savage, and called the 
jSTew York Mvseuni, hr sometime kept in Boylston 
Hall. The New Haven Museum, the Boston Museum, 
Market Museum, Columbian Museum, and also the 
collections of the late Linnean Society, have been suc- 
cessively purchased and added to this establishment, 
together with the continual accession of such curiosities 
as could from time to time be obtained from all other 
sources. It is now very large, and occupies two spa- 
cious halls and several other commodious apartments 
in the extensive block of buildings on Court Street, 
between Cornhill and Brattle Street. This establish- 
ment was considerably damaged by fire on the 14th 



212 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Feb. 1832, which rendered it necessary to close it for 
about four months, to make necessary repairs and 
alterations. The whole interior has been refitted in an 
elegant style with many new and curious additions, 
too numerous to particularize in this work. It was re- 
opened on the 4th of July 1832, and now receives 
extensive patronage. Price of admission 25 cents. 

STATE MUSEUM. 

This is owned and kept by Madame Duchesne, on 
Pemberton Hill, nearly opposite Concert Hall. The 
establishment is comparatively small, but is nevertheless 
interesting and worthy of patronage. Price of admis- 
sion, 25 cents, children half price. 

ANNIVERSARIES. 

JVew Yearns Bay is not observed by the inhabitants 
generally as a holiday, though to particular classes of 
people, it is. There is always a service at the Catho- 
lic church on this day, commemorative of the Circum- 
cision. The carriers of the newspapers, lamp-lighters, 
and watchmen present the citizens with poetical 
good wishes, and receive some solid evidences of the 
esteem with which they are regarded. 

General Election. — The first Wednesday in January, 
when the Legislature convenes, is called the General 
Election. After organizing the government, the Gen- 
eral Court march in procession from the State House, 
under escort of the Independent Cadets, to the Old 
South Church, where a sermon is delivered by one of 
the clergy, appointed at the previous session. 

Washington's Birth Day. — The discharge of heavy 
artillery, morning, noon and night, on the 22d of Feb- 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 213 

ruary, by military companies, recalls to recollection 
the services of ' the Father of his Country.' Public 
and private entertainments, such as dinners, balls, ap- 
propriate exhibitions and theatrical amusements char- 
acterize this day. 

Fast. — A Public Fast, generally in the month of 
April, is observed throughout the State, in compliance 
with a proclamation of the Governor and Council. — 
This is a day of religious solemnities, strictly observed 
in Boston — shops and stores being closed, and services 
held in all the churches. 

May-Bay. — This awakens many youthful associa- 
tions, but is only retained in this place as a festival 
morning by the force of custom. 

Artillery Election is the anniversary of the Ancient 
and Honourable Artillery Company, and occurs on the 
first Monday in June. The Governor, Lt. Governor, 
and the Members of the Council, after hearing the 
annual sermon pronounced, attend first the dinner and 
then the parade on the Common. The festivities of the 
day are finished by the Governor's conferring commis- 
sions of the officers elect, of the Ancient and Honora- 
able Artillery. 

The nth of June \s observed as the anniversary of 
the Battle of Bunker Hill, by military parade on the 
memorable height. 

Independence. — That which is most important in its 
object, in bringing annually into recollection, the strug- 
gle of our forefathers for the great charter of liberty, 
is the national anniversary, on the 4th of July. On 
the return of this day, which affords to millions of 
Freemen an opportunity to express with gratitude and 
with one voice, the numberless blessings Independence 
has brought in her train to this republic, the citizens 
19 



214 PICTURE OF BOSTON, 

relinquish their private employments to mingle in the 
wide ocean of national felicity. The day is ushered in 
by the ringing of bells, and the firing of cannon from 
our numerous hills, At an early period the military 
corps parade — people arrive from all parts of the country 
to partake in the festivities ; and when the day proves 
pleasant, the streets are thronged with citizens and 
strangers of all ages and sexes, arrayed in their best 
apparel, with joy aniniating their countenances. — Here 
piocessions are formed, orations delivered, political and 
religious, and such other demonstrations given of the 
love of country as becomes a free people. 

The Abolition of Slavery in Massachusetts is com- 
memorated by the people of color, on the 14th of July, 
by an oration and a public dinner. 

Squantiim Feast. — This is a celebration in commem- 
oration of an Indian Treaty. The entertainment is 
composed entirely of articles taken from the ocean, and 
is served up on a promontary called Squantum Rock, 
in Dorchester Bay, about five miles from the city. It 
usually occurs some time in August. 

Commencement, Harvard College. — This takes 
place on the last Wednesday in August, at Cambridge. 
The Governor, Lt. Governor and Council, with distin- 
guished citizens and strangers, leave the city in pro- 
cession at an early hour, to attend the exercises of the 
Graduating Class, and witness the conferring of de- 
grees. The exercises of the Phi Beta Kappa Society 
take place the day following. 

Brighton Fair. — An interesting exhibition of cattle, 
agricultural improvements and domestic manufactures, 
held in Brighton, in October — the particular day fixed 
by the Trustees of the Massachusetts Agricultural 
Society. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 215 

General Training in Boston, usually occurs in Oc- 
tober, when there is a grand military di?play and 
review of all the troops in the County of Suffolk. 

Tha.iksgiving. — Agreeably to a good old custom of 
our I'orefathers, a day was set apart by proclamation of 
the Governor, as a day of Public Thanksgiving. It com- 
monly occurs at the close of November, and is observed 
as a religious festival — services being held in the dif- 
ferent churches, and the day being ended by an in- 
terchange of good feelings between families and re- 
latives, over tables which are loaded with the richest 
bounties of our country. 

jYovember ELection. — The choice of Governor and 
Senators, takes place on the second Monday of Novem- 
ber, annually. 

Christmas. — The celebralion of the 25th of Decem- 
ber, is beginning to be more religiously observed by all 
denominations of christians. 



HOTELS. 

Although we may consider our city at all times well 
supplied Vv'ith hotels and boarding houses, whicli may 
afford to the traveller and citizen, an opportunity to se- 
lect a temporary home adapted to his taste and means, 
we have not, since the destruciion of the Old Exchange 
Coffee House,* had any very extensive establishment, 
till the erection of the 

TKElMOxNT HOUSK. 

The public spirited gentlemen, who resolved that 
Boston should have a Hotel equal at least to any in the 

* i)e«t:oyed by fire, Nov. S, 1S18. 



216 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

United States, accomplished their object with a lib- 
erality, taste and skill, that merits the thanks of the 
citizens, and the warmest approbation of the stranger. 
The Tremont house is a splendid ornament as a piece 
of architecture, and amply supplies what is a desidera- 
tum in the character of an excellent inn. The corner 
stone of this edifice was laid with interesting ceremo- 
nies on the 4th of July 1828, by the Massachusetts 
Charitable Mechanic Association, and was superin- 
tended in its erection by Wm. H. Eliot, Esq. and Mr. 
Isaiah Rogers, the architect. It was opened by the 
present landlord, Mr. Dwight Boyden, on the 16th of 
October, 1829. 

This occupies a front on Tremont Street of one hund- 
red and sixty feet. Its height above the level of the 
area (which is excavated in front and on Beacon Street,) 
is sixty-two feet. 

Two wings extend from the principal building in front, 
the most northerly of which fronts on Beacon Street, 
and is eighty-four feet long by thirty-four wide. The 
southerly wing, one hundred and ten feet long by forty 
wide, terminates westerly in a front, on Tremont Place, 
which opens from Beacon Street, and affords a private 
entrance to apartments intended for the accommodation 
of families and individuals who occupy suites of rooms. 

The house is three stories high in front, and four 
on the wings, exclusive of the basement story. The 
front and two circular ends facing Beacon Street and 
open ground south of the building, are of Quincy 
granite, and surmounted by an entablature, copied in 
part from the Choragic Monument, supported by Antass 
at each extremity. 

The portico, is of the same material, thirty-seven 
feet in width and twenty-five feet six inches long by 






W^-- 




PICTURE OF BOSTON. 217 

seven feet in width and twenty-five feet six inches high. 
Four fluted columns three feet four inches in diameter 
at the base, and six diameters high, support the roof of 
the portico, the proportions of which are precisely 
copied from those of tlie Doric Portico at Athens, with 
the exception that the portico of Tremont House, is 
di-triglyph, the intercolumniations being nearly equal. 
The whole number of rooms is one hundred and 
eighty. The south wing contains ten private parlors on 
the first and second floors, having one or more chambers 
attached to each. The dining room is in the north wing 
and is about seventy feet in length by thirty-one feet 
in width, the height being fourteen feet. Besides the 
private parlors in the south wing, there are six large 
rooms in front which are intended for the accommodation 
of clubs and parties. Every pair of these rooms are 
connected by sliding doors, one being intended for a 
drawing room, the other for a dining room. The length 
of each of these apartments are thirty feet, the width 
twenty, and the height of those on the first floor four- 
teen. In addition to these, there is a large reading- 
room and a general drawing-room, and two small parlors 
in the front part. The principal entrance is nearly 
opposite the Tremont Theatre, and besides this and the 
entrance from the court in the rear, there is a third 
private entrance on the south side about thirty feet 
from Tremont Street, to which access is had by means 
of a walk, wiiich extends the whole length of the south 
wing. 

The general management and attendance of the 
"hotel all correspond with the beauty of the furniture 
and magnitude of the edifice ; and if Mr. Costard Sly, 
who made it his residence in 1832, is to be credited, it 
must in candor be admitted * that for comfort, good cheer» 
19* 



218 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

and the extent of its accomnlodations, it is not surpassed j 
if equalled, by any similar establishment in the world.' 
The Tremont Stable, is kept by Mr. Nathaniel Wil- 
liams, in Sudbury Street, where gentlemen can b6 
accommodated with good horses and excellent car- 
riages. 

EXCHANGE COFFEE HOUSE, 

Kept by Mr. Hart Davenport, is situated in Congress 
Square, on the site of the Old Exchange, and in the very 
centre of business. The building is 5 stories high, 
and has a very handsome hall 75 feet by 30 ; a large 
dining hall, 18 parlors, 4 withdrawing rooms, 80 sleeping 
chambers, and can accommodate about 130 persons. — 
The following regulations will give some further idea 
of this excellent establishments 

' Gentlemen on becoming boarders, enter their names 
at the bar. The establishment is accountable for all 
articles deposited in the bai"~, and put in express charge 
of the bar keeper, naming the articles to him^ and for 
no other. 

Terms of Board and Lodging per day, $1, OO 

*' " " « week, 7, 00 

" " « " year, 260,00 

Board only, - - - <« week, 3, 50 

Dinners, - - . - '^ 2,50 

Board in private rooms per day - - $1,25 to 2,00 

No gentlemen considered an annual boarder, with- 
out an express agreement to that effect. Boarders for a 
less period, will be taken at the yearly rate, provided 
their terms of board include the winter months. Gen- 
tlemen who prefer drinking their own wane, are 
required to pay 50 cents per bottle. Payment from 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 219 

transient persons is expected weekly, and from all others, 
on the first day of every month, when bills will be 
Tendered. 

Breakfast (torn 8 to 10 ^ Dinner at 2 o'clock, during 
the week, and 1 on Sunday. Tea from 6 to 7, and 
Supper from 9 to 11. All meals at other hours are 
charged extra. The ringing of the bell, at the usual 
hour, is the summons to the eating room ; and in the 
morning, a preparatory bell is rung half an hour before 
txreakfast. The usual hour for retiring is 11 o'clock, but 
by ringing the bell, admittance may be obtained at any 
time thereafter. 

A regular watch is kept during the night, to give 
admission ; to provide beds, if required, and protect the 
house. 

When two or more gentlemen call for a private room, 
each individual of the party is chargeable, and liable 
for the payment of the whole bill, until it is settled. 

Gentlemen, on sending their names or numbers to the 
bar, (naming the kind and the price) may be supplied 
with liquors of superior quality.* 

MARLBORO* HOTEL, 

Is an extensive establishment, kept by Mr. James 
Barker, 229, Washington Street. The building is 
owned by Alexander Townsend, Esq. and has been 
recently much improved ; it is 4 stories, has a neat and 
convenient hall, with suitable withdrawing rooms for 
parties, and accommodations for about 100 persons. 
Some of the Providence and hourly stages depart from 
this hotel. 



220 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



COMMERCIAL COFFEE HOUSE, 

In Milk Street, near Liberty Square, is a well known 
establishment under the management of Mr. James 
Longley 

CITY TAVERN, 

By Mr. Lucius Doolittle, is a convenient and com- 
modious house, formerly well known as the stand kept 
by Mr. Simeon Boyden, in Brattle Street, near Dock 
Square. The Salem, Gloucester, and other stages keep 
their books here. 

merchants' hotel. 

Kept by A. M. Brigham, No. 42, Hannover Street, 
has undergone recent improvements, and is calculated 
to accommodate from 70 to 100 persons. There are 
from 6 to 8 stages that leave this house daily — princi- 
pally for Providence and the northward. 

LAFAYETTE HOTEL, 

Kept by Mr. S. Haskell, was built in 1824. It is 
situated opposite the Boylston Market, 392 Washington 
Street, near another tavern, now marked by the sign 
of the Liberty Tree. 

LIBERTY TREE TAVERN, 

Kept by Mr. G. Cummings, in Washington Street 
near Essex Street, occupies the spot where stood the 
Liberty Tree^ so famed in the annals of the Americaa 
Revolution. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



221 




NEW ENGLAND COFFEE HOUSE. 



This hotel was erected in 1832, by John D. Williams, 
Esq. a wealthy merchant of the city. It is kept by Mr. 
Frederick Boyden, (brother of Mr. Dwight Boyden, of 
the Tremont House,) who opened the establishment 
July 24, 1832. The site is one that has been rescued 
from the sea within a few years. It is built on a trian- 
gular piece of land, of about 10,000 feet, on the cor- 
ner of Creek and Clinton Streets, with the most con- 
venient and airy stable attached to any public house in 
the city. The yard is equally convenient, having an 
excellent well of water, and one of the best private 
rain-water cisterns in the city, which contains about 
12,000 gallons. This house is of a triangular form and 
four stories high. It has a convenient bar and news 
room, a large dining hall, 16 feet wide^^by 70 long, a 



SaSk PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

suitable number of parlours and setting rooms, and 
about 80 sleeping chambers. The kitchen and cooking 
apparatus is most admirably contrived. In the wasH 
room is a Hydraulic Pump, which conveys w^ater to a 
reservoir in the fourth story, for the convenience of 
the apartments in each. The whole is lighted by gas, 
and the establishment is finished and furnished in good 
Style; and for the time it has been open, has gained a 
large share of public patronage. 

EASTERN STAGE HOUSE* 

By Mr. B. D. Leavitt, No. 84, Ann Street, is a well 
known stand. The books of the eastern stages, are 
kept at this house. 

LAMB TAVERJf, 

By L. Adams, is a public house, kept for more than 
50 years at the Sign of the Lamb, 369 Washington 
Street, and we believe the Sign of the Lion, (now 
kept by A. S. Alien,) has been its constant neighbour, 
for nearly the same length of time. 

WASHINGTON COFFEE HOUSE, 

By Lewis Eoutell, at No. 158, Washington Street. 
One line of the Roxbury hourly's starts from this house. 

KII.BURn's, rORMERLV HOLLANDS' COFFEE HOUSE, 

Is situated in Howard Street, — is central and has 
been kept a public house about 14 years. Distilled 
liquors are dispensed with in this house. Attached to 
this establishment is an excellent Livery Stable, by 
Uriah Proctor, for the accommodation of strangers. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON, 



$29 




BROMFIELD HOUSE, 

This was formerly the Indian Queen Tavern, a puhllc 
house advantageously known and of long standing. It 
is kept by Mr. Preston Shephard, who has occupied this 
stand since 1823. The old house was taken down in 
the spiing of 1832, and the present edifice erected on 
an improved plan. The building is four stories high, 
72 feet in front, with a wing in the rear extending 120 
feet from the street. The whole establishment, in- 
cluding the yard and stables, occupies 10,500 feet of 
land. There is a convenient bar room, reading room, 
and a dining hall, 28 by 48 feet, with convenient 
parlors, withdrawing rooms, and 80 bedrooms; making 
in all about 100 rooms. The accommodations are ample 
for 150 persons to dine, and 100 to lodge. In this house 
distilled liquors are dispensed with. Board for transient 
persons, $1 per day, and boarders by the quarter at 
prices from $5, to $7, per week ; dinners 37 1-2 cents. 



PICTURE OF BOSTOlSr, 



CONCERT HALL. 



Kept by Gen. Eaton, No. 95, Court Street, corner 
of Hanover Street, is a distinguished place for balls 
and parties. See page 87. 

Patterson House, No. 11, Elm Street, by Solomon 
Wildes. 

Suffolk Hotel, Elm Street, by Phineas Adams. 

Manufacturers Hotel, Salem Street, by J. Bradly.- 

Franklin Hotel, Merchants' Row, by Henry Smith. 
This house has recently undergone extensive im-- 
provements. 

Warren Hotel, corner of Merrimack and Friend 
Street, by J. G. Glazier. This house has had an ad- 
ditional story and been improved in other respects, 
since it w^as injured by fire, July 7, 1832. 

Mansion House Hotel, Milk Street, by T. Coggshall. 

Sun Tavern, Batterymarch Street, by E. L. Baker. 

Washington Hotel is in Washington Street near 
Roxbury, and is kept by Thomas Davis, 

Cornhill Coffee House, Cornhill Court, by William 
Fenno. Here persons can be accommodated with 
meals or refreshments, at all hours of the day. 

Restoratory, by Mr. Wise, corner of Milk and 
Atkinson Street. 

Boylston Hotel, School Street, next to the Latin 
School house, by H. L. Bascom. 

Jennings' Hotel, No. 9, Elm Street, by J. Jennings. 

Fulton House, corner of Fulton and Cross Streets, 
by U. Hilliard. 

Massachusetts Hotel, corner of Pond and Cross 
Streets, by I. Stevens. 

Mail Road Hotel, Pond Street, by A. Haskell. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 225 

wesson's coffee house, formerly earl's. 

No. 36, Hanover Street, is kept by Capt. Silas 
Wesson, formerly of Westborough. This Hotel is 
extensively known in all the Eastern States, having 
been established in 1806, and kept by Mr. Earl for 
about twenty-three years. 

Canal Hotel, Pond Street, by J. Sherburn. 

Hanover House, in Hanover Street, by S. Robbins. 

Globe Hotel, Hanover Street, near the Winnesimet 
Ferry, by M. Tyler. 

Howard Street House, by Wm. Gallagher, in How- 
ard Street. 

Commercial Street House, kept by D. Brown. 

City Hotel, Elm Street, by S. Hamilton. 

Bite Tavern, Market Square, by B. Hill. 

Hancock Hotel, Corn Court, Market Square, by 
W. P. Capewell. 

Bank Coffee House, in Lindall Street, by D. Gra- 
ham. 

Mansion House, Milk Street, by E. Thompson. 
No ardent spirits. 

Union House, in Union Street, by Noble & Caswell. 

Black Horse Tavern, Union Street, by E. Brigham. 

Farmers'' Hotel, Ann Street, by D. Cummings. 

Jackson Hotel, Ann Street, by H. Colton. 

Leverett Street Hotel, by T. S. Lawrence. 

Crombie's Hotel, in Cambridge Street. 

Grocers^ Inn, Cambridge Street, by J. Towbridge. 

Holmes' Tavern, corner of Fourth and Turnpike 
Streets, South Boston, by D. Holmes. 

Fire Department Hotel, at South Boston Point, by 
R. Taft. 

Besides the public houses enumerated, there ara 



220 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

numerous JRestoratories and Victualing Cellars in 
almost every business street in the city, where the 
stranger and the lone citizen can call at all hours of 
the day, and obtain refreshments to suit his taste and 
purse. 

BOSTON PACKETS AND STEAM BOATS. 

Steam-boats run during the summer season, between 
this city and Portland, Me. three times a week. 

A steam boat also plies between Boston and Plymouth, 
three times a week. A steam boat also runs to Hingham. 

During the warm weather a steam-boat runs between 
the City and Nahant, twice a day. 

The Despatch Line of Packets between Boston and 
New York, are seven or eight in number. One of 
these vessels sail from the head of Long Wharf, every 
Wednesday and Saturday. 

For the several lines of Stages, Steamboats, and their 
variations, we would refer the reader to Messrs. Badger 
& Porter's Stage Register, published every two 
months, at the corner of Court Street, and Cornhill. 
The work may be found in nearly all the public houses 
in the city. 

CANALS. 

Boston is entitled to the credit of projecting the first 
canals in this country. As early as 1641, a Canal was 
opened leading through the city, from the harbour on 
the east, to Charles River on the west, separating North 
Boston from the main peninsula. It was known by the 
name of Canal Creek, was substantially built with stone 
walls, and of sufficient breadth to allow the Middle- 
sex Canal boats to pass each other. The conveniences 
it afforded in former times had been considerable ; but 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 227 

having become of little use and quite a nuisance, the 
city determined on filling it up, and a street has taken 
its place, 

ROXBURY CANAL. 

A navigable communication for small vessels, between 
Boston harbour and Roxbury was formerly enjoyed by 
means of a Canal, opened in 1796. It occupied, in part, 
the shore where Lewis' Ropewalks now stand, and ex- 
tended up to the Dorchester road. This Canal has been 
filled up for several years, above Northampton Street. 

MIDDLESEX CANAL. 

This Canal unites the water communication between 
Boston and the Merrimack River, at the bend in Chelms- 
ford. The first design of such a work, was originated 
by public spirited individuals of this city as early as 
1789. The company was incorporated in 1793, and the 
Canal constructed under the superintendanceofLoammi 
Baldwin, Esq. The expense of the work has been 
about 520,000. The whole length of the Canal is 27 
miles, 30 feet wide, and 4 feet deep. It commences at 
the tide water in Charlestown, and ascends 107 feet by 
13 locks to the level of Concord River, (in Mass.) 
crosses its surface and descends 21 feet by 3 locks to 
the Merrimack, little above Pawtucket Falls. The 
locks are 90 feet long by 12 wide, and are constructed 
of hewn stone in the most permanent manner. Boats of 
24 tons, 75 feet long, and 11 wide, can navigate this 
Canal. They are however generally smaller and are 
drawn frequently by two horses at the rate of three 
miles an hour, but in general, it takes 12 hours for the 
common boats to pass from Boston to the Merimack, a 
distance of 30 miles. A raft one mile long, containing 
800 tons of timber, has been drawn by two oxen, part 



MS PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

the way at the rate of one mile an hour. There is an 
elegant passage boat for the accommodation of passen- 
gers, which runs to Chelmsford three times a week 
during the summer season ; fare 75 cents. 

The Merimack from Chelmsford is made boatable, a 
distance of 55 miles by canals and locks. Boats first 
pass the works at Wicassee Falls ; then through the 
Union locks and canals, over several falls ; thence over 
Amoskeag Falls, 45 feet perpendicular height, 30 miles 
from the head of Middlesex Canal ; thence over Hook- 
sett Falls, 16 feet in height, thence through Bow Canal, 
25 feet in height, to the upper landing in Concord, N. H. 
The expense of these canals and locks has been rising 
$110,000. A vast quantity of timber, fuel, grain, &c. the 
produce of a great extent of very fertile country is annu- 
ally brought through these canals to our market. The 
toll in some seasons has amounted to upwards of ^25,000. 

BANKS. 

There are in the city 29 Banks, which employ a cap- 
ital of $20,100,000. The oldest is the Massachusetts 
Bank, v/hich was incorporated in 17S5. Through all 
the vicisitudes of commerce, foreign spoliations, the em- 
bargo, non-intercouse and war, and the more hazardous 
chances of speculation since the Peace, these banks have 
all maintained their credit; paying promptly, on demand, 
the specie for their bills. From the middle of JNIarch, to 
the middle of Oct. banking hours are from 9 a. m. till 
2 p. m. and from 10 to 2 from Oct. to March. 

UNITED STATES BRANCH BANK. 

No. 32, State Street, corner of Wilson's Lane. 

Commenced operations in Boston, Feb. 1817, and the 
amount of capital employed here is $1 ,500,000. 
William Appleton Prcs. — Saml. Frothingham, Cashier, 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 229 

The loan and pension offices are kept in the rear of 
the same building. 

STATE BANK. 

No. 53, State Street. 

Incorporated, June 27, 1811.— Capital, $1,800,000. 
E, A. Bourne, President. George Homer, Cashier. 

BOSTON BANK. 

No. 46, State Street. 

Incorporated, June 23, 1812.— Capital, $600,000. 

Phineas Upham, President. Jas. C. Wild, Cashier. 

MASSACHUSETTS BANK. 

No 64, gtate Street, 

Incorporated, June 23, 1812.— Capital, $800,000. 
William Parsons, President. Samuel Payson, Cashier. 

UNION BANK. 

No. 40, Slate Street. 

Incorporated, June 23, 1812.— Capital, $800,000. 

Thos. L. Winthrop, President. Chester Adams, Cashier. 

NEW-ENGLAND BANK. 

No. 67, State Street. 

Incorporated, Oct. 1813.— Capital, 1,000,000. 

Samuel Dorr, President. Philip Marett, Cashier. 

TREMONT BANK. 

No. 41, State Street. 

The name of this bank, was changed from Manu- 
facturers' and Mechanics' Bank, in 1830. 

Incorporated, Feb. 18, 1814.— Capital, $750,000, 
S. T. Armstrong, President. James Dalton, Cashier. 



230 PICTURE OF BOSTON, 

SUFFOLK BANK. 

No. 65, State Street. 

Incorporated, Feb. 11, 1818.— Capital, $750,000. 
Henry B. Stone, Pres. Matthew S. Parker, Cashier. 

CITY BANK. 

No. 61, State Street. 

Incorporated, Feb. 23, 1822.— Capital, $1000,000. 
Geo. Brinley, President. Eliphalet Williams, Cashier. 

EAGLE BANK. 

No. 61, State Street, 

Incorporated, Oct. 21, 1822. — Capital, $500,000. 
Titus Welles, President. J. J. Fisk, Cashier. 

COLUMBIAN BANK. 

No. 54, Stale Street. 

Incorporated, Feb. 20, 1822.— Capital,f$500,000. 
Joseph Tilden, President. William Coffin, jr. Cashier. 

AMERICAN BANK. 

No, 70, State Street. 

Incorporated, in 1824. — Capital, $750,000. 
John S. Wright, President. W. H. Odiorne, Cashier. 

COMMONWEALTH BANK. 

No. 47, State Street. 

Incorporated, Feb. 20, 1824.— Capital,$500,000. 

John K. Simpson, President. Charles Hood, Cashier. 

GLOBE BANK. 
No. 40, State Street. 

Incorporated, June, 1824. — Capital, $1,000,000. 
James Read, President. Charles Sprague, Cashier. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 231 

NORTH BANK. 

No. 23, North Market Slreet. 

Incorporated June, 1S25.— Capital, $750,000. 
Isaac Danforth, President. Gurdon Steel, Cashier. 

WASHINGTON BANK. 

No. 471, Wasliingtou Street, corner of Beach Sreef. 

Incorporated in 1825.— Capital, 500,000. 
Aaron Baldwin, President. D. A. Sigouruey, Cashier 

ATLANTIC BANK. 

Slate Street. 

Incorporated in 1S28.— Capital, $500,000. 
Pliny Cutler, President. Benjamin Dodd, Cashier. 

FRANKLIN BANK. 

South Boston. 

Incorporated in 1828. — Capital, 100,000. 
Saml. Goodridge, President. Jeremy Drake, Cashier, 

COMMERCIAL BANK. 

No. 91, State Street. 

Incorporated, June 15, 1831. — Capital, 500,000. 

Parker H. Pierce, President. Joseph Andrews, Cashier, 

MERCHANTS BANK. 

No. 87, State Street, 

Incorporated, March 19, 1831.— Capital, 750,000, 
Edw. Eldredge, President. Franklin Haven, Cashier, 



232 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

TRADERS BAMK. 
No, 9, India Street. 

Incorporated, March 16, 1831— Capital, 500,000. 
David Dudley, President. E. L. Frothingham, Cashier. 

HAMILTON BANK. 

No. 53, State Street. 

Incorporated, March 19, 18S1.— Capital, $500,000. 

Wm. Thorndike, President. Joseph Hall, jr. Cashier. 

ORIENTAL BANK. 

Incorporated, Jan. 23, 1831.— Capital $750,000. 
B. T. Pickraan, President. M. Whiting Cashier. 

MARKET BANK. 

Incorporated, 1832.— Capital, $500,000. 

Wm. B. Reynolds, President. Saml. 0. Mead, Cashier. 

HANCOCK BANK. 

To be located near Hancock Wharf, 

Incorporated, 1833.— $500,000. 

SOUTH BANK. 

To be located near Wheeler's Point. 

Incorporated, 1833.— Capital, $500,000, 

WINNESIMET BANK. 

To be located near Winnesimet Ferry. 

Incorporated, 1833.— Capital $500,000 

GRANITE BANK. 

To be located near Lewis' Wharf. 

Incorporated, 1833.— Capital, $500,000. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



23S 



A.TLAS BANK. 

Incorporated, 1833.— Capital, $500,000. 

seamen's savings bank. 

Corner of Commercial and North Market Strests. 

Incorporated, 1833. 

SAVINGS BANK. 




Tremont Street. 

The Provident Institution for Savings was incorporated 
Dec. 13, 1816. This Institution is intended to encourage 
industry and prudence in the poorer classes, and to induce 
them to save and lay by something of their earnings for a 
period of life when they Vv^ill be less able to earn a support. 
Deposits are received as low as one dollar, and when any 
person's deposit amounts to live dollars, it is put on interest. 
The deposits maybe withdrawn on stated days, if desired. 
The office of this institution is open every Wednesday. 



234 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



INSURANCE COMPANIES. 

There are twenty-four Insurance Companies in this 
city, the aggregate capital amounting to seven and a 
quarter millions, which, for solidity and safety, is not 
surpassed by any stock of the same description in 
the United States. Their capitals are generally entire 
and in many cases will command a premium ; the mode of 
investment is restricted by the Legislature, and the 
amount which they are authorized to take on any one 
risk, is limited to ten per cent, on each respective cap- 
ital. These restrictions have a tendency to give un- 
bounded confidence in their security, and the liberality 
which has always characterized their business tran- 
sactions, in the prompt payment of claims, cannot fall 
to draw business from all quarters. There is one 
Insurance Company included in the number above 
stated, who do business only for the stockholders, on 
the principle of mutual loss and profit. 

The following is a list of the several Insurance Com- 
panies, with the amount of capital annexed : 

Massachusetts Mutual Fire Insurance Co. 

capital not limited, but estimated at $300,000 

Massachusetts Fire and Marine " 400,000 

Hospital Life " 500,000 

American ** 300,000 

Atlas " 300,000 

Atlantic Insurance " 250,000 

Boston Marine " 300,000 

Boston *' 300,000 

Boylston Fire and Marine '* 300,000 

Columbian " 300,000 

Commonwealth " 300,000 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 235 



Commercial 


« 


200,000 


Franklin ^ 


it 


300,000 


Firemen'3 


« 


300,000 


Globe Fire and Marine 


«c 


300,000 


Hope 


(( 


300,000 


Manufacturer's 


t( 


300,000 


Mercantile Marine 


(C 


300,000 


Merchants' 


(< 


300,000 


New-England Marine 


<« 


300,000 


Neptune 


«< 


200,000 


Ocean 


cc 


200,000 


Suffolk 


« 


300,000 


United States 


(( 


200,000 


Washington Fire and Marine 


(C 


200,000 



7,250,000 

RECENT AND PROJECTED IMPROVEMENTS. 

Ik surveying the general appearance of Boston, and 
its vicinity, many valuable changes are presented 
which show the progressive industry of the citizens 
and municipal authorities. Although there are oc- 
casional murmurs concerning the expenditure of money, 
the great mass of citizens, must approve of the plans 
which the City Government have carried into opera- 
tion since 1822. The new market and the elegant 
edifices on either side, would do honor to any city 
in the world. 

Within 15 years about 60 acres of made layidh&s been 
added to the terra firma of Boston, and such has been 
the advancement in the business of local improvements 
within the last ten years, that strangers who were once 
familiar with the city, scarely recognize their former 
haunts. 



236 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Great and important works are going on in ouf 
harbour, for the defence of the city. Congress appro- 
priated $87,000 for a wall for the preservation of Deer 
Island, in Boston Harbour, in 1828. The work was 
commenced, under the immediate superintendence 
of Capt. Smith, the engineer who constructed the 
wall round George's Island, and is advancing towards 
completion. The city deeded the land on which the 
wall stands to the General Government, and leased the 
whole island to the engineer, till the labour should be 
finished. 

The Gas House which is situated on the westerly 
side of Copp's Hill near Charlestown Bridge, is con- 
structed of brick, and measures 160 feet by 40, which 
by a judicious arrangement of the apparatus, is con- 
sidered amply spacious. The necessary apparatus, 
consisting of retorts, with their various appendages, 
and two large gasometers, containing 20,000 cubic feet 
each, which are surrounded by a strong curb or tank, 
of much larger capacity, are placed at one end of the 
building. The erection of their works was commenc- 
ed early in the spring of 1828, and so far advanced as 
to commence lighting in December following. 

Private wealth and individual enterprise appears to be 
extensively engaged in the general improvement of our 
city and vicinity. Buildings every year are going up in 
all parts, on a very extensive scale. Boston has long en- 
joyed the reputation of being a neat city, and it bids fair 
to gain the additional reputation of being a handsome 
one. It is to be hoped that the spirit thus awakened 
will extend to the final completion of the projected 
Railways, so essential to the future prosperity of the 
Metropolis of New-England. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 237 



BOSTON AND PROVIDENCE RAIL ROAD. 

An act of incorporation was granted June 22, 1831, to 
build this Rail Road. A number of surveys having 
been made by Wm. Gibbs M'Neil Esq. agent and 
engineer of the corporation, a route was finally deter- 
mined upon, Avhich leads through the township of Sha- 
ron, and has been definitely located from Wait's Mill 
in Roxbury, to the summit level in Sharon, being a dis- 
tance of about eighteen miles. The agent has placed this 
part of the road under contract, and the work of grad- 
ing various portions of it, is proceeding with energy. 
It is found that the dividing ridge in Sharon, can be 
passed with locomotive engines at an inclination of only 
thirty-seven feet per mile, z-ndi that the length of this 
inclination is only five miles. The average descent 
from Sharon towards Providence will be only about 
ten or eleven feet. This part of the rout will be defin- 
itely fixed by the Directors, as soon as may be requi- 
site in the progress of the woric. The corporation is 
allowed till the first of January 1834, for filling the 
location of the road, and till first of Jan. 1837, for com- 
pleting the same. 

The precise mode of entering Boston, remains to be 
settled, but it has been determined that the route from 
the city, is to pass over the tide marshes west of the 
neck, and nearly parallel with the recent extension of 
Tremont Street, in a remarkably direct course to and 
through the valley of Stony Brook, and subsequently 
that of the Neponsett River, from which it diverges 
in the direction of the Stone Factory ; whence through 
the valley of Beaverhole Brook, it gradually attains 
the height of Sharon Plain. Having reached the sura- 
21 



23S PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

mit in Sharon, the line is continued through the towns of 
Mansfield, Attleboro', &c. to Providence. The total 
distance from Front Street, in Boston, to India Bridge, 
opposite Providence, is 40 3-4 miles; and it is said 
in the engineer's report that the inclinations are so 
well adapted to locomotive engines, that the maximum 
speed which may be found desirable, can readily be 
maintained, upon this rail road, and the ordinary time 
required to pass between Boston and Providence, need 
not exceed two hours. 

WORCESTER RAIL ROAD. 

The Worcester Rail Road Company was incorporated 
January 1831, with a capital of $1,000,000, divided in 
to 10,000 shares. The work was commenced Aug. 14, 
1832, and is progressing with despatch. This Rail 
Road, besides leading directly to the centre of the 
State, is in the direct route to Albany, and bids fair to 
become the chief route to New York, and most proba- 
bly will be that by which the great Western and 
Southern mails will be conveyed. The length of this 
road from Boston to Worcester, according to the sur- 
vey is 43 1-2 miles, and is graded for two tracks. It is 
nearly level a greater portion of the distance, and will 
have less inclination per mile, than any other rail road 
of consequence, except one. About 10 miles, has an 
inclination of 30 feet per mile. It is thought the work 
may be completed and opened throughout by 1835, and 
that it will not cost more than $883,000. It will pass 
through the most dense population of the State, and 
must become the main trunk of roads to be constructed 
to New York, Connecticut, and Vermont. From 
Boston it passes through Brookline, Brighton, Newton, 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 239 

Weston, Needham, Natick, Framingham, Hopkinton, 
Southborough, Westborough, Grafton, Milbury to 
Worcester. 

BOSTON AND LOWELL RAIL ROAD. 

The length of this Rail Road, as located, is twenty- 
five miles, and leads from Barton's Point, West Boston, 
across Charles River, nearly parallel to, and within 
100 feet of Craiges Bridge, to East Cambridge ; thence 
to Charlestown, Medford, through Woburn, Wilming- 
ton, Billerica, and Tukesbury to Lowell. An act of 
incorporation was granted June 5, 1830, with a capital 
of $600,000. Its location has been determined and 
its erection is fast advancing towards completion. 

Among the projected improvements, we take pleasure 
in mentioning those by the City Government, and in- 
corporate companies. 

NEW COURT HOUSE. 

This builing is to be erected of Quincy scienite, on 
the land formerly occupied by the old stone jail, between 
Court and School Streets. ' It is to be 80 by 60 feet, 
three stories high, with porticos on the east and west 
fronts, and at each end. The City Government has 
authorized a loan of $90,000, and given the necessary 
powers to a building committee for erecting this edifice. 

FRONT STREET 

Is to be continued from South Boston Bridge to Rox- 
bury, 50 feet wide. 

The easterly part of Canal Creek, v/hich had been 
filled up, has been opened as a public highway, and is 
called Creek Street. 

The City Council have purchased a wharf on Lynn 



240 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Street, which will enable them to remove the nuisance 
so long complained of in Merimack Street. 

Tremont Street has recently been opened from the 
Byles' estate to Roxbury, which adds an other important 
avenue to the city. Broad Street is to be continued 
to Sea Street, which together with the improvements 
that are about being accomplished, between Commer- 
cial and Lynn Streets, will form a line of marginal 
streets, that must greatly improve our city. 

SOUTH COVE COMPANY. 

Great and important improvements are about to be 
made by the South Cove Corporation, by filling up the 
principal part of the South Cove, or that part which is 
bounded westerly by Front Street, northerly by Essex 
and East Streets, easterly by Sea Street, and southerly 
by the channel, leading from the Free Bridge to the 
South Bridge. An act of incorporation was granted, 
January, 1S33; with a capital of $600,000, divided into 
twelve hundred shares of $500 each. The whole 
superficial contents of that part of the Cove proposed 
to be improved by the corporation are 3,345,000 square 
feet, and the estimated cost of the land, the filling up, 
making wharves, docks, &c. is about $520,000. 

This enterprise which was projected by Charles 
Ewer, Esq. in 1S31, may be considered one of the most 
important improvements ever set on foot in the city. 
The Worcester Rail Road Corporation have agreed, on 
payment of a bonus of something less than $100,000 
by the South Cove Corporation^ to bring their Rail 
Road into the City, across Washington Street, and 
locate their depot upon the lands proposed to be made ; 
and it is probable the Boston and Providence Rail Road, 
will also come in here. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 241 



EAST BOSTON. 

Noddles' Island, which has heretofore been occcu- 
J)ied only as a farm, has been laid out into Streets, and 
is about to be built upon as a part of the city. A 
company was formed in 1832, who purchased the 
island and all rights and privileges thereto belonging, 
for about |!80,000. It comprises about 600 acres, and at 
present contains but one or two dwelling houses. The 
proprietors obtained an act of incorporation the present 
year, under the name of the East Boston Company ; 
and we are informed it is their intention to commence 
immediately ' the building of a city.' Plans of the 
improvements contemplated may be seen on appUca- 
tion to the Corporation. 

ASYLUM FOR THE BLIND. 

The subject that most interests the public at present, 
is one that is likely to add to the character of Boston. 
"We allude to the institution for educating the blind, of 
which some mention is made at page 52. 

Col. Thomas H. Perkins, has given his splendid 
mansion in Pearl Street, estimated at $30,000, to this 
Institution, on condition that $50,000 be raised as a 
permanent fund to support the establishment, and that 
the estate shall always be occupied as < An Asylum 
FOR THE Blind.' This philanthropic generosity is 
well received by the public, and likely to be met by 
a corresponding liberality that will fully answer the 
conditions made by Col. Perkins. This munificent act 
of one of our fellow citizens, is such an one as makes 
us * prouder of our race, of our country, and of our 
city.' 

21* 



242 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



OMNIBUS STAGE. 

A vehicle of this description, called the ' Governor 
Brooks,' was introduced in this city in May. It is 
capable of carrying 24 persons ; and runs hourly from 
the Winnesimet Ferry to the Norfolk House in Eoxbury. 

CITY FINANCE. 

The City Government has ordered a tax of ^320,000 
for the financial year commencing on the first of May 
1833. The following are the most important uses to 
which the City's money is to be appropriated during the 
present year. For the salaries of the instructors of the 
schools, ^54,000 ; for repairs, fuel, and other school 
expenses, $7,500 ; paving, repairing, and widening 
streets, $.50,000 ; damages incurred by opening Tremont 
Street, $13,000 ; salaries of city and county officers, 
^29,000; city watch, $15,000; lighting streets, $18,000 ; 
fire department, $8,000 ; engine houses, $3,000 ; res- 
ervoirs, $3,000; internal health department, $16,000; 
external health department, including the completion of 
the hospital at Rainsford Island, $3,000 ; overseers of 
the poor, $14,700; house of industry, $21,575; house 
of reformation, $6,500 ; county of Suffolk, [^including 
expenses of courts, &c, $31,000 ; interest on city debt, 
$41,000 ; reduction of debt, $15,000 ; complefing house 
of correction at South Boston, $6,000 ; a new school 
house at the corner of M'Lean and Blossom Streets, 
$16,500. 

The City Government is about making a new entrance, 
and other improvements to Fanieul Hall. The hand of 
improvement is busy in every part of the city, and 
many of the ancient buildings described in this work 
are fast disappearing. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



243 



ANCIENT BUILDINGS. 



After having surveyed the more modern productions, 
it may not be unacceptable to the visitor to take some 
Jiotice of the remains of antiquity, yet among us. 

There is probably only one building now standing 
which was in existence prior to the great fire of 1676. 
That is the house in Moon Street, on the east side, 
about midway from Sun Court to Fleet Street. It has 
been the residence of the Mather's in their day, and is 
the property of their descendants at the present time. 

So far as we can discover, the next oldest building 
is that at the corner of Ann Street and Market Square, 



W'^^ 




occupied by John K. gimpiOn,jr. for a feather store, 
of which there is some account in the History of 
Boston, p. 156. 



244 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

It was built in 1680, and though it bears the mark of 
its age on its front, should it stand a century longer, it 
would in all likelihood remain as firm as it does now, 
a monument of the fidelity with which our forefathers 
constructed their houses for business and for habitation. 

In the same neighborhood, opposite the Golden Key 
we find one or two more of the old fashioned structures 
with projecting upper stories. One of these was lat- 
terly occupied by Mr. William Homes, proverbially 
' the honest silversmith ;' it was once the resort of 
Franklin, who was a relative of the family ; and if the 
exterior should continue to appear less inviting than 
that of some buildings in the vicinity, the owner, the 
occupant, and the observer may improve the considera- 
tion, by reflecting that no one of them ever gave shel- 
ter to a greater man than the latter, or a better than 
the former. 

The house at the corner of Richmond Street, next 
south of the New Brick Church, is a specimen probably 
of the first style of architecture introduced here, so 
far as the shape of the roof is concerned. The build- 
ing next north of the same church is a specimen of the 
succeeding fashion. It is shewn in the plate of the 
JVeic Brick. 

Between the Draw-bridge and the North Square, 
we find, I think, but one of these ancient houses, and 
that stands on a corner of Ann and Richmond Streets. 
Ann Street, between those points, has been mostly 
destroyed by fire within 65 years, and the buildings 
now partake some what of the modern character. 

Going north, we find four or five modern brick 
houses erected since the fire, at the foot of North 
Square, in 1807, and then come to the only neighbor- 
hood where a sufficient number of ancient houses are 
clustered together to remind anyone forcibly of the days 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 245 

of antiquity ; this vicinity is also honorable, for it may 
be truly said again, ' An honest silversmith lives here.' 
These old buildins;s, which are wooden, extend a little 
below Sun Court Street, till we come to Lewis' build- 
ings, so called, which is a large four story brick block, 
in front of the hotel, which was formerly the mansion 
house of the late Col. John May. 

At the period when the last mentioned house was 
erected, the North End was a fashionable part of the 
town, and the site on w'hich it stands was elevated, and 
then afforded a commanding prospect. Its exterior now 
shows that it was a substantial and elegant mansion, 
and it is said to have been finished in a superior style, 
to rival the mansion of the Clark family in Garden 
Court Street. The latter is also still remaining, and 
the good taste of the owner has preserved its exquisite 
beauties from the hatchet and brush of modern im- 
provements. Near the State house, on the west, is yet 
standing the Mansion House of that distinguished friend 




of liberty, John Hancock. It is an ancient stone build- 
ing, venerable for its years, but more so for having been 



246 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

the residence of a man whose memory is so dear to 
the heart of every Bostonian, and every American. 
At the southerly part of the city we have the Bull 
tavern, at the bottom of Summer Street ; and the elder 
Dr. Byles' estate in Tremont Street, 

Besides these, the scrutinizing eye, occasionally de- 
tects some antique relic on buildings in several more re- 
tired corners of the city. The sign of the Blue Ball 
still marks the house, which disputes the honor of 
giving birth to Franklin, our self-taught philosopher, 
at the corner of Union and Hanover Streets. A small 
window in Prince Street, midway from Hanover to 
Salem Street, is worth a mile's walk, to one who never 
saw a window 18 inches by 12, with 9 panes of glass 
in leaden sashes. The size of the bricks is to the 
connoisseur a good criterion of the age of several build- 
ings. Those in the Old State House built in 1712, are 
smaller than the older ones, and larger than those 
used after the fire of 1760. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 247 



ANNALS OF BOSTON. 

BY ALONZO LEWIS. 

Of the history of Boston before 1626, we have no 
other account, except a tradition, furnished by John 
Thomas, a very aged Indian of Framingham, His 
father informed him, that when he was about sixteen 
years of age, he lived with his father at the place now 
called Boston ; that there was then a very great sick- 
ness, and the Indians lay dead in almost every wigwam. 
Both at Boston and Dorchester Neck, now South Boston, 
so many Indians died, that they remained unburied ; and 
the few surviving Indians removed to other places. 

1626. The ancient appearance of Boston was that 
of three hill< ; of which the western was the largest, 
and terminated in three summits. The Indian name 
was Shawmut, or the hill with three tops; whence 
the English called it Tri-mountain. By the intersec- 
tion of several small streams, the peninsula was divided 
into three islands. It contained about 600 acres, thinly 
covered with wood. The first white inhabitant was 
the Rev. William Blackstone, an Episcopalian, who 
built a cottage in Spring Street, and from him, the 
whole peninsula, by many of the early settlers, was 
called Blackstone's Point. 

1627. The Indians in the neighborhood of Boston, 
were governed by a Sachem called Wonohaquaham, 
whose residence was at Chelsea. They received the 
English with great kindness, and seem never to have 
given any molestation to Mr. Blackstone, in his peace- 
ful abode. 

There was an earthquake this year. 

1628. A tax of £12, 75. was laid upon the whole 



248 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

colony to defray some public expenses, of which Mr, 
Blackstone's share was 12s. 

1629. Mr. Samuel Maverick made his residence on 
the island now called East Boston, where he built a 
small fort, and mounted four guns. He was an Epis- 
copalian, and was called the most ' hospitable man in all 
the country, giving entertainment to all comers gratis.' 

1630. In June and July, a large number of emi- 
grants arrived in Massachusetts, among whom was Mr. 
John Winthrop, the first governor, who made his resi- 
dence in Charlestown. July 8. A day of thanksgiving 
was kept, for safe arrival. July 30. Friday. A day of 
fasting and prayer was observed, on account of much 
sickness, and a church formed at Charlestown. Mr. 
Blackstone informed the Governor of an excellent spring 
of water at Shawmut, and in the early part of August, 
Mr. Isaac Johnson, with others, came over, and made his 
residence in Tremont Street, near the Savings Bank- 
So much provision had been sold to the Indians for bea- 
ver, that food became scarce, and the ship Lion was 
sent to England for more. Other ships returned, car- 
rying many sick people. August 23. The first Court of 
Assistants was held, on board the Arbella. August 27. 
Mr. John Wilson was chosen Minister of the Church 
at Charlestown, including the people at Shawmut. 

Sept. 7. The second Court of Assistants, at Charles- 
town, ordered that Tri-mountain should be called 
Boston. The larger part of the members residing at 
Boston, the church was removed to this place. Sept. 30. 
Mr. Isaac Johnson died, and was buried in his own lot, 
which is now the burial ground of King's Chapel. 

Oct. 19. The first General Court was held at Boston, 
and 108 persons were made freemen. In a rate of £50, 
Boston paid £11. Oct. 23. Mr. Edward Rossiter, one 
of the Assistants, died. Three children were baptized 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 249 

this month. Their names were Joy and Recompense, 
daughters of Mr. John Miles ; ami Pity, daughter of 
Mr. William Balston. A vessel was sent to the Narra- 
gansetts, to trade, and brought home 100 bushels of corn. 

In the beginning of November, Mr. John Winthrop, 
the Governor, and Mr. Thomas Dudley, Deputy Gover- 
nor, came over and made their residence at Boston, 
Mr. Winthrop built his house on the east side of Wash- 
ington Street, opposite School Street. 

Nov 9. The first Court of Assistants in Boston was 
held. 

Nov. 27. Three servants of the Governor were 
driven out to sea for four days, without food, and then 
gained the shore at Quincy. 

Dec. 22. Richard Garrett, with one of his daughters, 
and four other persons, left Boston in a boat, for Ply- 
mouth. They were wrecked on the Cape, and all, 
except the girl and one man, were so much frozen, that 
they died. 

Dec. 26. Charles river was frozen over. The peo- 
ple suffered much from cold and want of provisions, 
and subsisted on clams, muscles, groundnuts and acorns. 
Many cows and goats were abroad, for want of build- 
ings to shelter them. 

1631. Feb. 5. The ship Lion arrived with provisions. 
The Rev. Roger Williams came a passenger. 

Feb. 10. The ice in the rivers broke up. 

Feb. 18. Capt. Robert Welden died, and was buried 
with military honors. 

The price of flour was 14s. a bushel. 

Feb. 22. A day of thanksgiving was kept, for the 
arrival of the ship Lion. 

March 8. Flocks of wild pigeons passed over, so 
numerous as to ' obscure the light.' 
22 



250 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

March 16. The first fire happened about noon, 
Mr. Thomas Sharp's house took fire in the chimney, 
the top of which was wood, and the roof covered with 
thatch. The wind drove the fire to Mr. William Col- 
burn's house, and both were burnt down in about two 
hours. These houses were as good as most in the town, 
and had valuable furniture,someofwhich was destroyed. 

March 22. The Court ordered, that all persons hav- 
ing cards, dice, or gaming tables, should put them away, 
before the next court. 

March 23. Chickatabut, Sachem of Weymouth, 
came to Boston, and presented the Governor with a 
hogshead of Indian corn. 

March 26. Wonohaquaham of Chelsea, and Mon- 
towampate of Lynn, requested the Governor's assis- 
tance in recovering the value of 20 beaver skins, of 
which one Watts in England had deprived them. 

April 4. Wahginnacut, a Connecticut Sachem, vis- 
ited the Governor, and desired his friendship. 

April 12. The Court ordered that the captains should 
train their companies every Saturday. 

April 15. Chickatabut came again to Boston, and 
the Governor gave him an entire suit of clothes, and 
then sat meat before him, but he would not eat until 
the governor had asked a blessing, and after dinner, 
requested him to give thanks. 

May 16. A false alarm was made in the night, by 
firing a gun, and spreading a report that the Mohawks 
were coming. 

May 18. William Cheeseborough's house was burnt, 
at noon, ' all the people being present.' 

Thomas Williams was allowed, by the Court, to 
commence the first ferry from Winnesimit to Boston, 
and to have four pence for each person. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 251 

May 27. The price of corn was ten shillings a 
bushel. 

June 14. Edward Convers had liberty to commence 
a ferry from Charlestown to Boston, and to have three 
pence_^for each person. 

"VVonohaquham and Chickatabut, being informed of 
some damages which their men had done to our cattle, 
made restitution, 

Philip Ratcliff', for censuring the churches and gov- 
ernment, had his ears cutoff, was whipped and banished. 

July 26. A night watch of six persons was appointed. 
Boston, Charlestown, and Roxbury, furnished two men 
each. 

Oct 25. Gov. Winthrop and several officers, went 
on foot to Lynn and Salem, through the ford of Saugus 
River. The Governor notices ' a plentiful crop ' this 
year. 

Nov. 4. The ship Lion arrived with more provis- 
ions, and was welcomed vvith such joy ' as had never 
been seen in New England.' 

Nov. 11. A day of thanksgiving was kept. 

1632. April 3. Conant's island, in Boston harbour, 
was demised to Gov. Winthrop, and called Governor's 
Garden, now Governor's Island. 

May 24. A fortification was begun on 'the Corn 
Hill,' now Fort Hill. Charlestown, Roxbury, and 
Dorchester men worked on it. 

June 13. A day of thanksgiving for foreign success. 

Aug. 3. Mecumeh, a Narragansett Sachem, with 
about 12 Indians, came to Boston. 

Aug. 5. Sunday. During public worship, three of 
Mecumeh's men broke into a dwelling house, for 
which they were punished and sent home. 

The first meeting house was begun, at the corner of 
State and Devonshire Streets, 



253 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

The windmill was removed from Cambridge to Bos- 
ton, and set on Copp's Hill. 

The summer was very cold, and the corn much eaten 
by worms. 

Sept. 1. A camp was pitched for exercising soldiers, 
for fear of the Indians. 

Sept. 14. Chickatabut of Weymouth, Wonohaqua- 
ham of Winnesimet, and Montowampate of Lynn, were 
sent for, w^ho came to Boston, and denied all intentions 
of harm. 

Sept. 27. A day of thanksgiving. 

Oct. 3. The Court decided that Boston ' is the fittest 
place for public meetings.' 

The Court ordered that no person should take any 
tobacco publicly, under a penalty of one penny. 

Oct. 18. A vessel arrived from Pascataqua, with 
16 bushels of corn for the windmill. 

Nov. 7. The inhabitants of Boston were allowed 
liberty to fetch wood from Dorchester neck, for 20 
years. 

1633. Jan. 9. A son of Mr. Henry Oliver was 
killed, on Boston neck by the f.illing of a tree. 

March 4. Boston was rated £5, in a tax of £30. 

April 1. The Court ordered that Mr. Blackstone 
should have fifty acres of land in Boston, about one 
Iv/elfih part of the town, he being ' the first European 
inhabitant.' 

The island, now called East Boston, was granted to 
Mr. Samuel Maverick, he paying to the Court ' a fat 
wether, ot a fat hog, annually, or £10, in money,' and 
the inhabitants of Boston and Charlestown to have lib- 
erty to cut wood on the south part. Winnesimet ferry, 
both to Boston and Charlestown, was also granted to 
him. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 253 

June 19. A day of thanksgiving. 

August. A great scarcity of corn. 

Dec. 4. The snow fell knee deep. 

Dec. 5. Wonohaquaham died, of Smallpox. Many 
Indians died. Mr. Maverick buried more than thirty 
in one day. He and his family relieved the sick, and 
took home many of their children. 

1634. March 4. The representative system estab- 
lished. The first Representatives of Boston, were Mr- 
John Coggshall, Mr. Edmund Quincy, and Capt. John 
Underbill. 

Samuel Cole opened the first house for public enter- 
tainment. 

John Cogan, merchant, opened the first shop in State 
Street. 

May 1. The fortification, on Fort Hill, was in a 
state of defence. 

May 14. The Court ordered that Boston should have 
* convenient enlargement.' The lands granted were 
at Mount Wollaston, now Quincy ; Muddy River, now 
Brookline ; and Rumney Marsh, now Chelsea. 

July 29. The Governor and others met at Castle 
Island, and agreed to build a new fortification, now 
Fort Independence. 

Sept. 1. The first volume of Town Records begins. 

The first Selectmen on record, were John Winthrop, 
William Coddington, John Underbill, Thomas Oliver, 
Thomas Leverett, Giles Firman, John Coggeshall, 
William Pierce, Robert Harding, and William Brenton. 

Oct. 14, The weather was very hot, without rain 
for six weeks. 

Nov. 5. The Rebecca came from Narragansett, 
with five hundred bushels of corn. 

Nov, 10. The town purchased all Mr. Blackstone's 
22* 



254 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

• right and title to the peninsula of Shawmut,' for £30. 
Each freeholder paid six shillings, and some paid more. 

Nov. 21. Mr. John Willis and another man, with 
two boys, going to Maverick's Island for wood, were 
cast away, and lost. 

Dec. 4. A great snow storm, and the bay frozen 
over within two days. 

Dec. 11. The inhabitants chose seven men to divide 
the lands. 

1635. Jan. 19. The ministers met at Boston, to 
consider whether the people ought to receive a gover- 
nor, if one should be sent from England .-' and whether 
they should continue to bear the cross in their banners ? 
The first question was decided in the negative, the 
second was deferred. 

Six men were kept a w-eek on Governor's Island, by 
bad weather. 

February. A man w'as drowned in crossing the ice 
to Winnesimet. 

Feb. 9. Every able man was allowed two acres, and 
every able youth one acre, to plant. 

March 3. Boston was allowed six pieces of ordnance, 
and £30, for the fortification on Fort Hill. 

March 4. The court ordered that brass farthingg 
should be discontinued, and that musket bullets should 
pass for farthings. 

March 23. The town voted that any persons making 
any hindrance in town meeting by private conference, 
should pay 12 pence each, 

April 2. The (own voted ' that our brother Philemon 
Pormont, be intreated to become schoolmaster.' 

Mr. Samuel Maverick went to Virginia to trade. 

May 6. A beacon was ordered to be set on Sentry Hill, 
and a man stationed near it, to fire it in case of danger. 

August, IG. One of the greatest storms ever known 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 255 

in New England, blew down ' many hundred thousand 
of trees,' damaged the corn, houses, and ships, and 
caused the tide to rise twenty feet. 

Oct. 6. Rev. John Wilson and Mr Henry Vane, 
came to Boston. 

Rev. William Blackstone removed to Study Hill, on 
Blackstone's River. He had the first orchard which 
bore fruit in Massachusetts, and the ' Blackstone Sweet- 
ings,' are still in good repute. 

1636. Jan. 1. The ship Rebecca came from Ber- 
muda with 30,000 pounds of potatoes, bought for 2s. 6d. 
a bushel, and sold for 2d. a pound. 
Feb. 25. A day of thanksgiving. 
May 25. Mr. Henry Vane was chosen Governor. 
His residence was in a house which stood in Tremont 
Street, nearly opposite the Savings Bank. 
Another windmill was built at Boston. 
June. The Pequot war commenced. 
Aug. 3. Mr. Samuel Maverick returned from Vir- 
ginia, and brought fourteen heifers, and eighty goats. 

Aug. 6. A subscription was made for Mr. Daniel 
Maude, ' free schoolmaster.' 

Aug. 24. Eighty men sent against the Pequots. 
October. Mrs, Ann Hutchinson, began to preach her 
peculiar doctrines. 

1637. Jan. 20. A general fast. 
March 21. Miantonimo sent to the Governor, forty 
fathom of Wampum, and a Pequot's head. 

April 10. A company of soldiers was sent against 
the Pequots. 

May 16. Of one hundred and sixty men sent against 
the Pequods, Boston furnished twenty-six. 

June 20. A shot, designed to be fired before an 
English vessel, coming by the fort, accidentally killed 
» passenger. 



256 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

June 15. A day of thanksgiving for victory over 
the Pequods. 

June 26. The young Lord Ley, came to Boston. 

July 6. Forty-eight Indian women and children, 
taken prisoners, were brought to Boston, and sold. 

July 12. Ayanemo, Sachem of Natick, came to 
Boston with 17 men, and made friendship. 

Aug. 3. Sir Henry Vane and Lord Ley, returned 
to England. 

Aug. 26. The soldiers returned from the Pequot war. 

Sept. 28. Two men were hung at Boston ; John 
Williams, for the murder of John Hoddy ; and WiUiam 
Schooler, for the murder of Mary Sholy. 

The Selectmen were first paid this year. 

In a rate of £400, Boston paid £59 4s. 

Oct. 12. A day of thanksgiving for victory over the 
Pequots. 

Nov. 1. Miantonimoh, the Narraganset Sachem, 
came to Boston. 

A young man, coming from Cambridge to Boston in 
a boat, perished in a storm. 

Mr. Jewell, master of a vessel, was drowned in the 
harbour. 

1638. Jan. 13. Thirty men, going to Spectacle 
Island, to cut wood, were driven out by a storm for 
several days, and one perished. The wood being now 
all cut from the town, the people obtained it from the 
Islands, and Dorchester. 

Jan. 16. The public ammunition was removed to 
Roxbury and Cambridge. 

March 13. The line between Boston and Lynn was 
established at Bride's Brook, now between Chelsea and 
Saugus. 

Mrs. Hutchinson was banished from Massachusetts. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 257 

April 12. A public fast. 

April 21. Oosamequin came to Boston, and made 
the Governor a present of twenty beaver skins. 

The preceding winter was very severe, and the 
spring so cold, that the people were compelled to plant 
their corn several times. 

June 1. A great earthquake. 

The Ancient and Honourable Artillery Company was 
formed. 

June 5. Uncas, the Mohegan Sachem, came to 
Boston. 

Twenty vessels, with three thousand persons, came 
over this summer. 

Aug 3. A great storm; which raised the tide very 
high, and drove a ship ashore at Charlestown. 

Sept. 25. A great storm, and high tide. 

Dec. 6. Dorothy Talbye was hung at Boston, for 
murdering her daughter, 3 years old, in a spiritual 
delusion. 

Dec. 13. A public fast. 

Dec. 15. A great storm which did much damage. 

1639. Jan. 16. An earthquake. 

March 16. A great storm with high tide. 
April. Mr. Edward Howe, Representative from 
Lynn, fell dead at the ferry, while waiting for the boat. 

The Indians of Block Island sent ten fathom of 
wampum, as a tribute to the Governor. 

May 6. Two regiments, containing one thousand 
soldiers, paraded at Boston. 

May 11. Two Narragansett Sachems sent the gov- 
ernor thirty fathom of wampum. Sequin a Connecti- 
cut Sachem sent ten fathom. 

June 4. A great drought, without rain for six weeks. 

Sept. 17. The subjects of Boston, dwelling at Mount 



258 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Wollaston, desired a minister, and the town granted 
them two. 

1640. Feb. 1.3. Mount Wallaston was incorporated, 
with the name of Braintree. 

June. In a rate of £1200, Boston paid £ 179. 

July 27. The Mary Rose, a Bristol ship of two hund- 
red tons, with twenty-one barrels of powder, and 
fifteen men, blew up in Charlestown Harbour. 

Sept. 4. A great storm with very high tide. 

October. Money was scarce, which caused lands 
and cattle (o fall in price one half. 

1641. Sept. 11. A meteor w^as seen in the south. 
Sept. 15. A training of 1200 men at Boston, for 

two days, yet no one drunk, nor an oath sworn. 

Nov. 12. A great tempest, with the highest tide for 
ten years. 

The harbour was more solidly frozen this winter, than 
it had been, according to Indian tradition for forty years. 

1642. April 14. A public fast. 

June 8. Nathaniel Briscoe was drowned. 

June 22. The lightning struck the windmill on 
Copp's Hill, and injured the miller. 

July 21. A general fast. 

Three ships were built at Boston this summer. 

1643 PJarch 5. Sunday, at 7 in the morning, there 
was an earthquake. 

June 12. Mons. De la Tour, Governor of Acadia, 
now part of Maine, came to Boston. On training day, 
he brought forty men on shore, and exercised them. 

1644, March 5. Three Sachems came to Boston, 
and presented the Governor with thirty fathom of 
wampum. 

March 7. Five sachems presented twenty fathom 
of wampum. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 259 

March 21, James Britton and Mary Latham were 
liung at Boston. 

Sept. 17. Lady De la Tour arrived from London, 
and prosecuted the master and owner of the ship for 
detaining her, from a direct passage, and recovered 
£2000 damages. 

A London vessel, witli a commission, took a Bristol 
ship in the harbor. Many people collected on Copp's 
Hill, to witness the event, and a Bristol merchant, 
beginning to raise a mob, was apprehended, and put 
under guard. 

1645. Feb. 16. The winter continued so mild till 
this day) that the ground might be ploughed. 

July 3. A day of fasting. 

July 14. The watch-house on Fort Hill, was struck 
by lightning. 

Oct. 29. A great tempest drove three ships ashore. 

A black person, brought this year from Guinea, was 
claimed by the General Court, and sent home. 

The town made an allowance of £50, for the sup- 
port of a free schoolmaster, and house ; and £30 for an 
usher. 

In a rate of £616, Boston paid £100. 

1646. July. Much harm was done to the corn 
by caterpillars. 

A vessel from Boston, commanded by Capt. Dobson, 
was taken by the French, and carried to Port Royal. 

Liberty Tree was planted this year, at the south 
corner of Washington and Essex Streets, nearly oppo- 
site the Boylston market. 

Oct. 17. A ship of 300 tons was launched at Boston. 

Nov. 4. A great tempest. 

1647. June. An epidemic, supposed to have been 
the influenza, prevailed, and many died. 



260 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

June 14. Mrs. Winthrop, wife of the Governor, 
died. 

'1648, Margaret Jones was hung at Boston, for 
witchcraft. This was the first execution for this im- 
puted offence, in Massachusetts. 

1649. February. Eight persons were drowned at 
Boston, this winter. 

March 26. Gov. John Winthrop died, aged 62, and 
was buried in the King's Chapel burial ground. 
Smallpox in Boston. 

1650. March 18. Anthony Stoddard was chosen 
Town Recorder. The town records were previously 
kept by the Clerk of the Writs. 

A great mortality prevailed among children. 
April 11. Mr. Robert Woodmansey was School- 
master. 

1651. The Court ordered that no person, who was 
not worth £200, should wear any gold or silver lace, 
or silk hoods or scarfs. 

1652. A mint was established at Boston, for coining 
silver. The dies were made by Mr. Joseph Jenka 
of Lynn. 

1653. A great fire in Boston. 

1654. Mr. Joseph Jenks, of Lynn, made the first fire 
engine for the people of Boston. 

1655. An epidemic prevailed. 

1656. June I'J. Mrs. Ann Hibbins was executed 
for witchcraft. 

July. Some of the people called Quakers, first came 
to Boston. 

1657. The ministers met at Boston, to discuss the 
subject of Baptism. 

1658. A great earthquake, 

Sept. 16. Three Quakers had their right ears cut off. 

1659. The first Town House in Boston was built. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 261 

William Robinson and Marmaduke Stevenson, two 
Quakers, were put to death. 

1660. Gens. Whalley and Goffe, two of the judges 
of King Charles I. arrived at Boston. 

March 16. William Leddra, a Quaker, was hung. 

June 1. Mary Dyer, a Quaker, was hung. 

1662. The General Court appointed two licensers of 
the press. 

1663. Jan. 26. A very great earthquake. 

1664. July 25. The town voted to have the bell 
rung every day at 11 o'clock, to call the merchants 
together, for one hour, at the town house. 

A great comet appeared. 

1665. The North and South Batteries were erected 
this year. 

Capt. Davenport was killed by lightning, on his bed, 
at the Castle. 

March 23. Gov. John Endicott died at Boston, 
aged 76. 

The wheat was blighted. 

1666. The king ordered the Court to send per- 
sons to England, to be heard respecting public griev- 
ances. 

The Smallpox prevailed in Boston. 
March 12. Mr. Daniel Henchman was appointed 
assistant schoolmaster to Mr. Woodmansey. 

1667. Aug. 7. Rev. John Wilson, the first settled 
minister of Boston died, aged 79. 

Aug. 26. Mr. Benjamin Thompson was appointed 
principal schoolmaster. 

1668. March. A meteor was seen. 

1669. April 3. An earthquake. 

23 



262 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

1671. Jan. 3. Mr. Ezekiel Cheever was appointed 
schoolmaster. 

1672. The first proclamation of war was read in 
Boston, by England against the Dutch. 

Gov. Richard Bellingham died, aged 80. 

1673. The fort on Castle Island was burnt^ and 
rebuilt. 

The first wharf in Boston was built. 

1674. John Foster set up the first printing presa at 
Boston. 

1675. Philip's War commenced. 

August. Eight Indians were brought to Boston, and 
in September, one of them was hung. 

1676. A great drought. 

Nov. 27. A great fire, at North Square, burnt forty- 
five dwelling houses, and the North Meeting-house. 

1677. May. The Court appointed John Hayward, 
Post Master, ' to take in, and convey letters according 
to their direction.' 

Dec. 6. Thanksgiving. 

1678. The price of corn was two shillings a bushel. 
The Smallpox prevailed in Boston. 

A fire engine was procured from England. 

1679. Aug. 8. A fire broke out in the night near 
the town dock, and burnt eighty houses, seventy 
stores, and several ships. Loss £200,000. 

Edward Randolph, the first collector of customs, ar- 
rived at Boston. 

1680. Nov. 18.^ A very great comet appeared. 

1681. The General Court granted Samuel Sewall 
liberty to manage the printing press at Boston, and no 
one to set up another without license. 

1682. June 22. A public fast. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 26S 

Oct. 24. A fire near the town dock, which burnt 
many houses, stores and vessels. 

1683. May 28. It was ordered, that seven men 
one out of each military company, should have charge 
of the fire engine. 

1684. June 18. Massachusetts was deprived of its 
Charter. 

Nov. 1. A free school for writing was opened, under 
the care of Mr. John Cole. 

1685. March 19. Wampatuck, Sachem of Nepon- 
set, gave a quit claim deed of Boston. 

Edward Randolph was appointed deputy post-master 
of New England. 

1686. December 19. Sir Edmund Andross, the 
English Governor of Massachusetts, arrived at Boston. 

1688. Rev. Increase Mather of Boston, was sent 
to England, to represent grievances. 

1689. April 19. Sir Edmund Andross was seized 
by the people, and put in prison. 

May 9. The Representatives assembled at Boston, 
and voted to resume their rights. 

1690. August 3. A fire, near the Mill Pond, burnt 
several houses. 

Sept. 16. A fire, near the Old South Meeting-house, 
burnt several houses, a printing office, and one boy. 
The first paper money was issued. 

1691. June 30. A fire at North End burnt several 
liouses. 

1692. May 14. Sir William Phipps, Governor of 
Massachusetts, arrived at Boston, with a new charter. 
His house is now standing at the corner of Salem and 
Charter Streets, built in 1688, and occupied as the 
Asylum for Indigent boys. 

Boston was allowed four Representatives. 



264 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

1693. A fleet, for the reduction of Canada, arrived 
at Boston ; and relinquished the expedition, by reason 
of great sickness. 

16y4. The General Court required the Selectmen 
to post in all taverns in town, the names of drunkards. 

Nov. 17. Gov. Sir William Phipps embarked for 
England. 

1696. The vi^inter was the coldest from the settle- 
ment of New England. Loaded sleds passed for many- 
weeks,' across the harbour, on the ice. 

1699. William Kidd, a celebrated captain of pirates, 
was arrested at Boston, and sent to England. 

1700. Boston contained one thousand houses, and 
seven thousand inhabitants. 

1701. The Representatives of Boston, were in- 
structed by the town, to endeavor the abolition of 
slavery. 

1702. The Smallpox raged in Boston, and three hund- 
red and thirteen persons died. 

March 11. A "great fire in Boston. 

The first By-Laws of this town were printed. 

1704. April 24. The Boston A'^ews Letter, the first 
newspaper, was published at Boston, by John Camp- 
bell, Post Master. 

May 15. ' An embargo was laid on all outward bound 
ships.' 
June 30. Six pirates were executed at Boston. 

1705. The fort on Castle Island was called Castle 
William. 

Muddy River, part of Boston, was incorporated 
by the name of Brookline. 
The western post went only < once a fortnight.' 

1706. Jan. 6. Benjamin Franklin was born in a 
house that stood opposite the Old South, in Milk Street. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 265 

1707. May 18. Two vessels were launched at 
Boston. 

1708. Ezekiel Cheever who was schoolmaster of 
'Boston for 38 years, and wore his beard, died, aged 93. 
He is called in the Boston News Letter of Oct. 18, 
* The ancient and honourable master of the Free School 
in Boston.' 

1709. The papers for many years abound with ad- 
vertisements of negro men, boys and girls, to be sold, 
' Inquire at the Post Office.' 

1710. A fortification was built across the neck, 
between Boston and Roxbury. 

The wharf at the foot of State Street was built. 
A board of firewards was established. 

1711. Oct. 2. A fire burnt all the houses on both 
sides of Washington Street, from School Street to 
Market Square, with part of State Street. About 100 
dwelUng houses, the town house, and First Meeting- 
house, were burnt, with several sailors in the steeple. 
The town had ' two engines.' 

July 9. ' An Indian boy and girl to be sold.' 

June 2.5. A Brifish Fleet of eighty vessels, under 

Admiral Sir Hoveden Walker, arrived at the Castle, 

and sailed July 30. 

1712. The Town House was rebuilt. 

1713. A grammar school was opened at North End 
under the care of Mr. Recompense Wadsworth. 

Feb. 6. A malt house at North End was burnt 
March 8- The western post began to go once a 
week, alternately for Seabrook and Hartford. 
Boston was very sickly, with measles and fever. 

1714. Oct. 25. Two houses were burnt in Boston. 
April 1. A day of Thanksgiving in Boston, for the 

health of the town restored. 
23* 



266 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



1 



July 12. < A. Carolina Indian man to be sold.' 
1715. Boston Lighthouse was built. 

1717. Feb. 20. The great snow. 

Samuel Bellamy, a pirate captain, with his fleet, 
was wrecked on Cape Cod, and more than 100 of his 
crew were drowned. Six who survived were execu- 
ted at Boston. 

The South Writing School was opened, at the corner 
of West and Common Streets, under the care of Mr. 
Amos Angier. 

1718. A writing school was opened at North End. 
The master was Mr. Jeremiah Condy. 

1719. Dec. 21. The Boston Gazette was published. 
Sept. 7. Monday. The Boston News Letter says, 

• It is very remarkable, that though on last Lord's day, 
we had some rain, which had been very grievous for 
about a month before,' that after the ministers had 
given notice of a public fast, ' that self same evening 
the rain ceased and the sun shone clear ever since.' 

1720. Jan. 6. The coldest weather for many years. 
Two men on horseback, going over the neck to 

Roxbury, were much frozen, and their horses were 
frozen to death. 

Jan. 13. The lighthouse was burnt. 

1721. The Smallpox raged, and eight hundred and 
forty-four persons died. 

Dr. Zabdiel Boylston introduced the practice of 
inoculation. 

Aug. 7. The New England Courant was published. 

Oct. 14. At 3 o'clock in the night, a grenade, 
charged with powder, was thrown into a chamber of 
Rev. Cotton Mather's house, in which a minister was 
sick of the Smallpox. 

1722. Jan. 8. A fire on Long Wharf burnt three stores. 
May. ' A curious ingraved map of the town of 

Boston,' was published by Capt. John Bonner. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 267 

1723. Feb. 4. A very high tide. 

April 2. Mr. Powell's house, in Congress Street, 
was set on fire by a negro, and burnt. 
April. Cooke's Buildings, in State Street were burnt. 

1724. Jan. 31. A fire at North End, burnt a 
warehouse and injured several vessels. 

Nov. 23. A great storm, with high tide and wind, 
which did very great damage to ships and houses. 

1725. April 3. James Cochran brought two Indian 
scalps to Boston, and received £200, as a rev/ard. 

July 28. Two Indian Chiefs from Penobscot, were 
brought to Boston, and confined in the Castle as hostages, 
from which they escaped on the 8th of October. 

1726. Jan. 5. A brig was wrecked on Deer Island, 
and five men drowned. 

September. Two Frenchmen, three Indian men, 
one Indian woman and two children, were brought to 
Boston as Pirates. 

1727. March 20. The New England Weekly Jour- 
nal was published. 

October 29. An earthquake. 

1729. Feb. 15. A great snow storm, in which there 
was much thunder and lightning. 

1730. April 12. An earthquake. 

The Smallpox prevailed, and 480 persons died. The 
Centennial Celebration of the first settlement of Boston, 
■did not take place in consequence. 

Oct. 22. The northern lights exceedingly brilliant. 

Dec 19. An earthquake. 

1731. Feb. 22. A fire at West Boston. 

April 9. Robert Orange was crushed to death be- 
tween a cart and a post in the street. 

May 8. A child was drowned from Long Wharf. 

May 24. A child at the North End was run over by 
a cart loaded with timber, and killed. 



268 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

May 28. A man was drowned in the harbour, and a 
boy at the ferry. 

1732. Jan. A young man, who had been taken away 
by the Indians before he was two years old, and kept 
twenty-two years, came to Boston, to search for his 
unknown parents, who were afterward found at Kittery. 

Sept. 5. An earthquake. 

An epidemic cold generally prevailed. 

1733. The first Lodge of Freemasons in Boston, 
was held. 

1734. Jan. 30. Mr. Benj. Green's printing office 
was burnt. 

June 4. Three markets were opened, a bell was 
rung at sunrise, and the market hours continued until 
1 o'clock. 

1735. Sept. 25. A fishing boat was wrecked in the 
harbour, and three men were drowned. 

1736. The throat distemper prevailed. 

1737. The markets were discontinued. 
The Charitable Irish Society was formed. 
Feb. 6. An earthquake. 

173S. Rumney Marsh, part of Boston, was incor- 
porated, by the name of Chelsea. 

A workhouse was built in Boston. 

1739. Feb. 17. Some men on board a sloop at 
North End, firing at a mark, sent two balls into Mr. 
Morberley's chamber, one of which struck his wife. 

Feb. 21. Some powder, left in the fireplace of a 
chamber, in Capt. Thomas Homan's house, at the 
western part of the town, blew up the room, injured 
several women, and killed a boy. 

Feb. 25. A great thunder storm, in which Mr, 
Lee's house was struck by lightning. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 269 

May 11. A child of Capt. David Franklin was 
drowned at South End. 

1740. Sept. 18. Rev. George Whitfield arrived at 
Boston. 

Faneuil Hall, built by Mr. Peter Faneuil, was 
presented to the town for a market house. 

The winter was excessively cold, with many storms, 
snow began to fall Nov. 13. 

1741. April 4. The snow was from three to four 
feet deep. 

Feb. 18. The Winnesimet ferry boat was overset, 
and a Frenchman drowned. 

1742. Sept. 16. A fire near Fort Hill. 

1743. The American Magazine was published at 
Boston. 

1744. Feb. 23. A brew house, and several other 
buildings near the common, were burnt. 

June S. An earthquake. 

1745. Feb. 11. A leather warehouse, and several 
other buildings at South End, were burnt. 

The Massachusetts frigate, of four hundred tons, was 
launched at Boston. 

March 9. A beautiful night arch. 

1746. Nov. 16. Several buildings were burned in 
Water Street, where Mr. George Hews had a tan 
yard. 

1747. Dec. 9. The Town House was burnt. 
Nov. 17. Commodore Knowles, having lost some 

of his men by desertion, pressed as many from the 
wharves and vessels. In the evening, a great mob 
collected in State Street, and in a few days, the im- 
pressed men were released. 

1748. Oct. 22. A great fire in Purchase Street. 
This year, five hundred vessels cleared from the 



270 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

iiarbour of Boston, and four hundred and thirty 
entered. 

The Town House was rebuilt. 

1749. Money sent from England to pay for the 
capture of Louisburgh, arrived at Boston. It consisted 
of two hundred and fifteen chests of silver, loading 
seventeen trucks ; and one hundred casks of copper, 
loading ten trucks. The amount was ^816,218. 

A severe drought, with swarms of insects, caused 
great distress in New England. 

1750. The first theatrical exhibition in Boston, was 
at the British Coffee House in State Street. 

March 21. A girl fell from the staging of a ship, 
and was killed. 

1751. Feb. 6. A child at South End, fell into a 
cellar, into which the tide was flowing, and was 
drowned. 

1752. The Smallpox prevailed in Boston, and five 
hundred and forty -five persons died. 

June 1. An Irish servant maid was advertised to be 
sold for four years. 

June 15. ' To be sold, Guernsey boys and girls 
for a term of time, on board the sloop Two Brothers.' 

1753. June 23. A sailor fell from a ship in the 
harbour and was drowned. 

September. The fort on Castle Island was furnished 
with new cannon brought from England. 

1754. April IS. Four houses at West Boston were 
burnt. 

The Massachusetts Marine Society was incorporated . 

1755. May 20. Troops sailed from Boston on an 
expedition against Nova Scotia. 

July. The troops under General Braddock were 
defeated. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 27i 

Nov. 18. A very great earthquake. About one 
hundred chimnej^s in Boston were thrown down, and 
the ends of brick buildings to the roofs, and the spindle 
of a vane on one of the clmrches bent. 

1756. Concert Hall was built. 

Jan. 13. A great fire in Hanover Street, in which 
a woman was burnt to death. 

Jan. 22. A man brought an Indian scalp to Boston, 
and received the bounty of £40. 

Feb. 12. Four Frenchmen, taken prisoners near 
Fort George, were brought to Boston. 

Dec. 10. A very great snow storm, in which many 
travellers perished, and many ships were wrecked. 

1757. July 8. An earthquake. 

1758. Aug. 17. News of the Capture of Fort Bre- 
ton arrived at Boston. 

1759. Sept. 18. Quebec was taken, by troops under 
Gen. Wolfe. 

Nov. 14. A fire at the east end of Water Street, 
destroyed ten houses. 

December. A fire at West Boston burnt 2 ropewalks. 

1760. March 17. A fire happened at West Boston. 
March 18. A fire in the British laboratory, on Liv- 
erpool Wharf. 

March 20. A very great fire began in Washington 
Street, and burnt through State Street and Water Street, 
destroying one hundred and seventy-four houses and 
one hundred and seventy-five shops, nearly one tenth 
part of the town. 

1761. Jan. 13. Faneuil Hall was partly burnt. 
February. A great trial between the merchants of 

Boston and the officers of custom, respecting writs of 
assistance to aid them in the discharge of their duties. 
March 12. An earthquake. 



272 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Oct. 23. A great storm, which did much damage t®- 
houses, wharves, and shipping. 
A great drought which caused a scarcity of grain. 
Nov. 1. An earthquake. 

1762. June 10. A fire in Williams' Court, burnt 
several houses. 

1763. Jan. 16. A fire at South End burnt five 
houses. 

1764. The Smallpox was in Boston, and one hundred 
and twenty-four persons died. 

The people of Boston instruct their representatives 
to maintain their rights, 

1765. March 22. The Stamp Act passed. 

Aug. 14. The effigies of the distributor of stamps 
were hung upon Liberty Tree, at the corner of Wash- 
ington and Essex Streets, and his office in State Street, 
was demolished. 

Aug. 26. Lt. Gov. Thomas Hutchinson's house, in 
Fleet Street, was assaulted and plundered by a mob. 

Nov. 1. The day on which the Stamp Act was to 
begin its operations, was commenced by the tolling of 
bells, and other demonstrations of public dissatisfaction. 

Boston contained 1676 houses, and 15,520 inhabitants. 

1766. March 18. The Stamp Act was repealed. 
May 16. News of the repeal of the Stamp Act was 

received. 

1767. Feb. 3. A fire at the Mill Creek burnt 
seventeen houses. 

June 29. An act imposing duties on paper, glass, 
paints, and teas, was passed. 

1768. June 10. A disturbance was occasioned in 
Boston, by the seizure of a vessel loaded with wine. 
The collector's boat was drawn through the town, and 
burnt on the common. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 273 

Oct. 1. Two regiments of British troops, com- 
prising seven hundred soldiers, landed in Boston, and 
were quartered in the State house, now the City- 
Hall. 

1769. Jan. 30. The goal in Court Street, was set 
on fire by the prisoners and destroyed. 

July 19. A brilliant night arch. 

Aug. 1. Gov. Bernard was recalled to England. 

Sept. 8. A great storm and high wind. 

1770. Feb. 22. Ebenezer Richardson being driven 
to his house by a mob, fired fi-om his window, and 
killed a boy. 

March 5. The Boston Massacre. The soldiers fired 
on the citizens in King Street, now State Street, and 
killed five persons. 

Many people agreed not to drink tea till the duty 
should be repealed. 

May. An ox was roasted on Boston Common. 

Oct. 19. A great north east storm . and high tide 
occasioned much damage. 

1771. Lt. Gov. Thomas Hutchinson refused his 
salary from the province, and was paid by the crown. 

1772. April. A fire happened in the British Coffee 
House, in State Street. 

July 20. A carpenter's shop in Summer Street, was 
burnt. A large pasture, at this time was on the east of 
Trinity Church, in Summer Street. 

Nov. 1. The town chose a Committee of Corres- 
pondence, to state their rights. 

Nov. 23. Widow May's barn at South Boston was 
burnt. 

1773. Feb. 21. Three houses were burnt near the 
Mill Pond. The water thrown upon the adjacent 

24 



274 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



V 



houses froze, and many people had their hands and 
feet frozen. 

April 4. Sunday. A fire in Back Street burnt the 
Sandemanian place of worship, and several shops. 

1774. March 31. Boston Port Bill, shutting the 
harbour of Boston, passed. 

May 10. News of the Port Bill arrived at Boston. 

May 13. Gen. Thomas Page, Governor of Massa- 
chusetts, arrived at Boston. 

May 14. The town voted to discontinue commerce 
with Great Britain. 

June 1. The port of Boston was shut ; which caused 
great distress. 

Sept. 4. The First Continental Congress met at 
Philadelphia. 

The powder in the magazine at Boston, was withheld 
from the proprietors. 

Lamps were first lighted in the streets of Boston. 

An entire and beautiful night arch appeared. 

Seventeen persons, disguised as Indians, and armed, 
went on board some India Ships in the harbour, and 
emptied overboard three hundred and forty-two chests 
of tea. 

Nov. 2. Five hundred people assembled, to prevent 
the landing of a consignment of teas. 

Nov. 28. A ship loaded with tea, arrived, and a 
watch of twenty-five persons, was appointed to pre- 
vent the landing. 

1775. April 19. Battle of Lexington. 

August. Liberty Tree was destroyed by British 
troops, and a soldier killed by the fall. 

May 17. A fire in Market Square burnt 30 buildings. 
June 17. Battle of Bunker Hill. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 275 

1776. March 17. Boston was evacuated by British 
troops, and Gen. Washington entered in triumph. 

July 18. The Declaration of Independence pubUsbed 
at Boston with great parade. 

March 25. Congress presented a vote of thanks 
and a gold medal to Washington, for his spirited conduct 
at Boston. 

The Smallpox was in Boston, and twenty-nine per- 
sons died. 

1777. Dec. 18. A day of public thanksgiving. 

1778. Jan. 17. The house of Peter Chardin, Esq. 
in Cambridge Street, was burnt. 

Forty-two persons died of Smallpox. 

Dec. 22. A great snow storm, which continued for 
five days, and occasioned great damage. Mr. William 
Bishop, and his team of four oxen and a horse, were all 
frozen to death, on Boston Neck. 

1779. May 25. Seventeen prisoners escaped from 
the guard ship in the harbour, and were retaken in a 
fishing schooner off Cape Ann. 

1780. May 4. The Academy of Arts and Sciences 
was established. 

Sept 22. A fire on Long Wharf burnt several stores. 

May 24. Mr. Charles Jenkins was thrown from a 
horse at the foot of the Common, and drowned. 

May 25. A great darkness commenced at 10 o'clock 
in the forenoon, and continued until midnight. 

1781. Nov. 1. The Massachusetts Medical Society 
was incorporated. 

1782. Nov. 29. An earthquake. 

Dec. 25. The North Mills, near Charles River, 
containing a great quantity of grain, were destroyed 
by fire. 

1783. April 11. Peace proclaimed by Congress. 



276 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

April 23. News of Peace received at Boston. 

Aug. 21. A house, warehouse, stable, and four 
horses were burnt, at one of the wharves. A chimney 
fell on two men from Hanover, and killed them. 

Nov. 29. An earthquake. 

1784. Nov. 29. A very great north east storm with 
high tide, which occasioned much damage. 

1785. April 21. A meeting of mechanics and man- 
ufacturers was held at the Green Dragon Tavern, to 
encourage domestic manufactures. 

1786. June 17. Charles River Bridge was finished, 
and opened with great parade. 

December. The snow was seven feet deep, on a 
level. 

1787. April 24. A fire began in Beach Street and burnt 
sixty dwelling houses, forty other buildings, and the 
Meeting house in HolUs Street. Marquis Lafayette 
gave $1550 to the sufferers. 

July. The Glass Company was established. 

1788. Feb. 6. The Constitution of Massachusetts 
was accepted. 

The seizure of three blacks, by the Captain of a 
vessel in Boston, and taking them to the West Indies, 
occasioned an act of the General Court, for the relief of 
kidnapped persons. 

1789. The Beacon was blown down, on Beacon Hill. 
October 24. President Washington visited Boston. 

1790. A moument, sixty feet high, was erected on 
Beacon Hill. 

April 17. Dr. Franklin died at Philadelphia, aged 84, 
and bequeathed »^4,444, to the city of Boston, for the 
benefit of young married artificers. 

1791. Feb. 23. The Massachusetts Humane Society 
was incorporated. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 277 

The first Museum in Boston, wss established by Mr. 
Daniel Bowen. 

Dec. 18. The coldest day for many years. 

1792. Jan. 23. A fire near the North Meeting house. 
Thermometer ten degress below zero. 
Thirty-three persons died of the Smallpox. 

1793. West Boston Bridge was built. 

1794. Feb. 3. The Federal Street Theatre was 
first opened. 

The Boston Library was incorporated. 
Feb. 19. The Massachusetts Historical Society 
was incorporated. 

June. At the close of the embargo, the port of Bos- 
ton contained twenty-three ships, fifty-six brigs, one 
hundred and six schooners, and sixty-nine sloops. 

July 30. A fire from Atkinson to Purchase Street, 
destroyed forty-three houses, twenty-one barns, twenty- 
four shops, and eight ropewalks. The amount collected 
for the sufferers was ^33,000. 

17fi5. July. Two houses at West Boston were burnt. 

July 4. The corner stone of the new State House 
was laid. 

March 15. The Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic 
Association was incorporated. 

1796. March 9. Two houses in State Street were 
burnt. 

1797. Feb, 22. Attempts were made to set fire to 
Mr. Mavritt's house in Winter Street, and Mr. Holmes' 
in Union Street. 

Feb. 25. Several cordage manufactories and rope 
walks, valued at ^106,000, were burnt at West Boston. 

March 5. A house in Beacon Street belonging to 
the estate of Gov. James Bowdoin, was burnt. A black 
man was executed for setting it on fire. 
24* 



278 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

March. 16. Attempts were made to set fire to Mr. 
Goldsbury's house in Fish Street, and Mr. Beals' in 
Middle Street. 

Nov. 27. Several buildings were burnt in Ann Street. 

The frigate Constitution was launched at Boston. 

Dec. 7. President Adams visited Fort William, and 
gave it the name of Fort Independence. 

1798. Feb 2. The Federal Street Theatre was burnt. 
The New State House was first occupied. 

1799. May 11. Eleven houses in Washington 
Street were burnt. 

1800. The alms house in Leverett Street was built. 
The Municipal Court at Boston was estabhshed. 
March 1. An earthquake. 

1801. Feb. The Boston Dispensary was incorporated. 
Oct. 16. A very large meteor was seen. 

Dec. 16. A great fire in Ann Street. 

1802. The turnpike from Salem to Boston was begun. 

1803. Feb. 26. The Boston Female Asylum in- 
corporated. 

May 8. Sunday. A snow storm. 
Sept. 22. Thursday. The turnpike was opened 
and began to receive toll. 

1804. Dorchester neck was set off from Dorchester, 
and called South Boston. The bridge was built this year. 

Oct. 9. A great storm and gale commenced, which 
did immense damage. 

Beacon Hill was levelled. 

1805. May. Faneuil Hall was enlarged. 

1806. April 16. An earthquake. 
June 16. A total echpse of the sun. 

August 18. Six houses in Ann Street were burnt. 
Copp's Hill was levelled. 

1807. Sept. 25. A comet appeared. 

Dec. 22. A general embargo was laid by Congress. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 279 

The Boston Athenaeum was incorporated. 

1S08. Gov. J. SulUvan died at Boston aged 64 years. 

1809. March 1. The embargo was repealed. 
August 3. Cragie's bridge was finished. 

1810. Nov. 9. An earthquake. 
Boylston Hall was opened. 

1811. Feb. 25. The Massachusetts General Hos- 
pital was incorporated. 

July 7. An excessively hot day. 

1812. June 1. The Howard Benevolent Society was 
organized. 

June 18. War was declared against Great Britain. 

1813. June 1. The American fi-igate Chespeake, 
commanded by Captain Lawrence, went fi-om the har- 
bour of Boston, on a challenge, and was captured by 
the British frigate Shannon, under Capt. Broke. 

1814. Feb. 25. The Boston Asylum for Indigent 
boys was established. 

Nov. 16. A national fast. 

Dec. 24. A Treaty of Peace was signed at Ghent, 
between England and the United States. 

1815. The North American Review was commenced 
at Boston. 

The Massachusetts Peace Society was formed. 

1816. July 2. President Munroe visited Boston. 
Dec. 13. The Provident Institution for Savings was 

incorporated. 

1817. Feb. 14. An extremely cold day. 
Sept. 7. An earthquake. 

Oct. 5. An earthquake. 

1818. Feb. 16. The Howard Benevolent Society 
was incorporated. 

July 4. The New England Museum was opened. 
Nov. 3. The Exchange Coffee House, in Congress 
Street, was destroyed by fire. It cost $500,000. 



280 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

1S19. July 6. An exceedingly hot day. 

1820. The Nahant Hotel was built by several 
gentlemen oi' Boston. 

1821. Jan. 25. An extremely cold day. 

July 14. Six houses and stores in Union Street 
were burnt. 

1822. Feb. 23. Boston was incorporated a city. 
April 16. The Hon. John Phillips was elected first 

Mayor. 

May 1. The City Authorities entered upon the 
duties of their offices. 

1823. Jan. 21. The Penitent Females Refuge was 
incorporated. 

The Hon. Josiah Quincy was elected Mayor. 

1824. April 7. A fire burnt fifty-three buildings 
between Central and State Streets. 

July 5. The corner stone of the United States 
Branch Bank, in State Street, was laid. 

July 7. Fifteen dwelling houses were burnt in Ches- 
nut, Charles, and Beacon Streets. 

Aug. 25. Marquis Lafayette visited Boston. 

1825. April. The moon, several stars, and the 
planet Venus, were visible for several hours, in the 
middle of the day. 

June 15, Lafayette returned to Boston. 

June 17. The corner stone of the Bunker Hill 
Monument was laid, 

June IS. New Fire Department authorized. 

Oct. 26. The High School for girls was established. 

Nov. 10. Fire in Court Street, burnt ten buildings and 
considerable property, including books and manuscripts. 

Dec. 22. A crockery ware store, at the corner of 
Washington and Franklin Streets, was burnt. 

1826. The influenza prevailed. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 281 

Feb. 15. A store on Central Wharf was burnt. 

March 8. Mr, Faxon's shoe store, North Market 
Street, was burnt. 

May 6. A Boston pleasure boat was capsized off 
Point Shirley, and four men were drowned. 

Aug. 24. The house for Juvenile Offenders opened. 

August 26. The Market House, in Market Street, 
was opened. 

Dec. 21. A great tumult at Federal Street Theatre, 
on account of Mr. Edmund Kean. 

1827. The winter was intensely cold, and the quan- 
tity of snow very great. 

May 1. Canova's statue of Washington arrived at 
Boston, and was placed in the State House. 

June 15. A monument to Franklin was erected in 
the Granary burial ground, in Tremont Street. 

A free bridge to South Boston was opened. 

Aug. 5. A man named Young, was killed in Peck 
Lane, in a quarrel. 

Aug. 28. A most splendid night arch was formed 
by the Aurora Borealis. 

Sept. 19. A very great storm, with high wind. 

Sept. 24. The Tremont Theatre was first opened. 

Dec. 14. A store in Washington Street was burnt. 

1828. April 8. The Boston Infant School Society 
was instituted. 

Aug. 20. A public dinner was given to the African 
Prince, Abduhl Rahahman. 

October. Several Winnebago chiefs visited Boston. 

December. The Hon. Harrison Gray Otis was 
chosen mayor. 

Dec. 25. The Warren Bridge was first opened. 

1829. Jan 10. The trees and houses were encrust- 
ed with ice, in an exceedingly beautiful manner. 

April 25. John Boyle was drowned from Long Wharf. 



282 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

April 25. John Trask was drowned from Lewis's 
Wharf. 

July 9. Peter Stone was killed by the falling of a 
bank of earth at Fort Hill. 

July 15. A great riot in Ann Street. 

August. Two Siamese boys, united by a natural 
ligature, arrived at Boston. 

August 14. A distillery was burnt in Union Street. 

Sept. 3. The Tremont House, in Tremont Street, 
was opened. 

Oct. 9. Two houses in Stillman Street, and a stable 
in Tremont Street, were burnt. 

Oct. 10. A type foundry at Fort Hill was burnt. 

Oct. 12. A meteor was seen in the southwest. 

Oct 29. One of the greatest storms for many years. 

Nov. 3. A stable was burnt in Salem Street. 

Nov. 29. Several buildings were burnt, at the 
corner of Washington and Summer Streets. 

Dec. 17. A Stable in Bromfield Street was burnt. 

1830. Feb. 1. The Stone Church in Hanover Street 
was burnt. 

May 3. A bake house in Ann Street was burnt. 

August. 19. The American Institute of Instruc- 
tion, was formed at Boston. 

Sept. 17. The second centennial celebration of the 
settlement of Boston, was observed with great parade. 

1331. Jan. 15. A very great snow storm. 

April 4. A foundry in Front Street was burnt. 

April 8. A great snow storm with violent gales. 

May 4. A bake house, at the corner of Broad 
Street and Hamilton Avenue, was destroyed by fire 
and Mr. John Murphy, his wife and three children, 
were burnt to death. 

June 30, The steamboat Housatonic was burnt at 
Tilestpn's Wharf. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 283 

July 1. Two pirates, Gadett and Coloncttc, were 
executed at Boston. 

Dec. 22. The Hon. Charles Wells was elected 
mayor. 

1832. Jan. 1. The New England Anti Slavery 
Society was formed. 

Jan. 27. An exceedingly cold day. 

June 12. A pleasure boat, was overset by a squall 
in the harbor, and eight men were drowned. 

June 24. The chemical works at South Boston were 
destroyed by fire. 

June 26. A fast in Boston, in apprehension of the 
Cholera. 

July 4. Two o'clock in the morning, two buildings 
were burnt in Commercial Street. About 11 o'clock 
A. M. several buildings, and four vessels, were burnt, 
at Spear's Wharf near Fort Hill. 

The Boston Young Men's Temperance Society was 
formed. 

July 7. A dwelling house and four other buildings 
with part of the Warren Hotel, in Friend Street, was 
burnt. 

Aug. 9. A pubhc fast. 

Aug. 13. Two steamboats began to pass on Winnes- 
imet ferry. 

Aug. 15. Two women died of Cholera. About 
thirty other persons died within two months. 

Sept. 24. Mr. John Rich was killed in an affray in 
Ann Street. 

Nov. 10. Dr. Gaspard F. Spurzheim, the German 
Phrenologist, died at Boston, aged 56 years. 

Nov. 21. A brick building in State Street was burnt, 
and the City Hall, and Post Office, greatly injured 
by the fire. In the building where the fire originated 



284 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

a cannister of gun powder blew up, and injured several 
persons. 

Dec. 27. The windmill on Wheeler's Point was 
burnt. 

1833. Feb. 8. A fair was held at the Masonic 
Temple, opposite the Common, for the benefit of 
Seamen, when $1008, dollars were collected. 

Feb. 27. The Boston Young Men's Colonization 
Society was Ibrmed. 

March 19. An exhibition of the pupils of the Asylum 
of the Blind, was given at the Masonic Temple, and 
about $1000 were collected. 

March 22, Five buildings and a great quantity of 
lumber were burnt on a wharf at South End. 

April. The City Council ordered the bells to be 
rung at sunrise. 

April 29. The weather was uncommonly warm, the 
thermometer at 90, and the season pleasant and forward. 

May 1. A fair was held in Faneuil Hall, by the 
Ladies of Boston, for the benefit of the ' Asylum for 
the Blind,' which was continued for three days. The 
amount collected was $12,918. 

Note. The preceding are the first regular annals 
of Boston that have been prepared. It would have been 
extremely easy to have been more diffuse, but the object 
was to give the greatest number of dates in the smallest 
number of pages. 



Hi 



PICTURE OF BOSTON, 285 



ENVIRONS OF BOSTON. 

Probably there is no city in the United States that 
can boast of so many delightful villages, pleasant and 
commanding eminences and retired watering places, as 
Boston; villages and heights which present to the eye 
the most delightful and enchanting scenery, whose 
wholesome breeze enlivens and invigorates the frame, 
and makes the man of business cheerful. Some of the 
towns are venerable for their age, and interesting, as 
the theatre of revolutionary exploits. 

SOUTH BOSTON. 

This section of the metropolis is so located as to seem 
to a stranger more like a part of the environs than like 
an integral portion of the city. He will find here several 
establishments in the manufacturing line which maybe 
examined with interest, and two public buildings. 

The House of Industry and Correction, and the House 
of Reformation, are two similar buildings, of rough 
dimension stone, 220 feet long, 45 feet wide, and 29 feet 
high, have been mostly erected by the city government. 
The establishment of the House of Correction was author- 
ized by a vote of the town on the 7th of May, 1821. 
It was designed ' for the restraint and employment of 
the idle and vicious poor, for habitual drunkards, beggars, 
and those condemned for petty offences, in the inferior 
courts of justice. The House of Industry is destined 
for the comfort, support, and relief, and as far as they 
are competent, for the employment of the virtuous poor, 
and of those alone, who are reduced to seek this refuge, 
from misfortune, or age, or infancy.' The Institution for 
25 



286 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

the employment' of juvenile offenders is connected 
with these establishments, and is in a separate building. 
The object of this Institution is to take boys and girls, 
who are bad either from choice, habit, or circumstance, 
and reform them and put them out to mechanics, farm- 
ers, &c. None are received except those sent by the 
Municipal or Police Courts. Since its establishment 
there have been received 69 girls, and 339 boys ; of 
which number, there remained in Dec. 1832, 17 
girls, and 95 boys, in the house, making 112 total. 
All but 75 are reformed, and put out, or are ready 
to go to places. About 60 are received annually and 
about the same number sent out. The expense of the 
clothing and food is $36 50 per head. The annual ex- 
pense of the Institution to the city, by whom it is sup- 
ported, is about $6,500 

QUINCY AND THE RAILWAY. 

The town of Quincy* lies about 10 miles from Boston, 
in a southerly direction ; bounded by Dorchester, Mil- 
ton, Randolph, Braintree and Boston Bay, and is 8 1-2 
miles long by 7 1-2 broad. The most settled part is 
towards the southeast, where there are three churches, 
several stores, a tavern, and a number of respectable 
dwellings. About half a mile from this village, north- 
west, is the mansion of the late John Adams, Esq. 
second President of the United States ; and about one 
and a half miles more northerly, is the country seat 
and highly cultivated farm of the Hon. Josiah Quincy. 
The southwest part of the town, from the Common, 



* An interesting history of this town, was published by the Rev. 
G»:orge Whitney, in 1827. 



I 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 287 

forms, with a little exception, a general body of granite 
rocks, rising to a height of 610 feet above the sea. 
Here are inexhaustible quarries of granite, which fur- 
nish a durable and beautiful material for building. From 
two of the quarries a railway has been constructed 
through part of Milton to the navigable waters in the 
Neponset river, a distance of three miles, and is in 
successful operation. The first quarry is called the 
Railway quarry, and is about two miles from the river ; 
the other is the Bunker Hill quarry, so called from 
the circumstance that the stone for the Bunker Hill 
Monument is taken from this ledge. 

The QuxNCY Railway, the first constructed in this 
country, was built in 1826, by the Quincy Railway 
Company, under the direction and superintendence of 
Mr. Gridley Bryant ; and cost, for the whole three miles, 
^33,158, 95, exclusive of land, wharf and cars. The 
cars used here are constructed with a view to transport 
large masses of granite on a platform under the axle of 
of the carriage, and in this manner some blocks have 
been conveyed weighing from 8 to 9 tons. The wheels 
are 6 feet in diameter, shod with iron 1-2 an inch thick, 
with a flange on the inner side of the rim, to keep the 
wheel on the rail. The daily load for one horse is from 
8 to 12 tons, placed upon two cars attached to each 
other, and the travel is at the rate of 3 miles an hour. — 
Upwards of 16 tons on three cars, and about twenty 
workmen have been drawn by way of experiment, the 
whole length of the railway by a single horse, and the 
empty cars estimated to weigh nearly five tons, drawn 
back with ease. The descent on the railway, in two 
and a half miles from the Bunker Hil! quarry to where 
it strikes the level on the marsh, is S3 feet, or 1 1-2 
inches to the rod ; but in some places the declivity is 
from 2 to 2 1-2 inches to the rod. 



288 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

To the pedestrian or the inquiring stranger visiting 
our city, it will be pleasant to walk on the railway, and 
follow its windings among the hills to the quarries, and 
there view the extensive works put in operation. Be- 
sides the satisfaction thus afforded, the romantic scenery 
in the vicinity and on the route from Boston, through 
Dorchester and Milton, will add much to the pleasure 
of a ride to the Railway. 

DORCHESTER. 

The settlement of this town was commenced early in 
June, 1630 ; it was then called Mattapan by the In- 
dians. It lies about four miles from the city and is 
bounded northerly by the Neponset River and Mother 
Brook, which divides it from the towns of Quincy and 
Milton; southwesterly by Dedham, and northwesterly 
by Roxbury. The town is about 7 1-2 miles in length, 
and averages about 1 1-4 in breadth. At present it 
contain about 8000 acres, including Thompson and Moon 
Islands. The soil is generally rich and highly culti- 
vated. The roads are numerous and crooked, but mostly 
level and kept in good repair. Many fine country seats 
and substantial farm-houses are thickly arranged on their 
sides, surrounded with fruit and other trees, which give 
a very picturesqe appearance to the face of the country. 
The population amounts to about 5000. They have a 
town house, four Congregational meeting-houses, and 
one for Methodists. Their first Church was gathered 
Aug. 23, 1636, and the Rev. Richard Mather chosen 
pastor. He officiated 33, years, and died April 22, 1669, 
aged 73. The Rev. Josiah Flint was ordained Dec. 27, 
1671, and died Sept. 16, 16S0, aged 35. Rev. John Dan- 
forth was ordained June 28, 1682, and died May 26, 
1730, aged 78. The Rev. Jonathan Bowman waa 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



ordained Nov. 5, 1729, and continued in the pastoral 
office till Dec. 14, 1773 ; he died March 30, 1775, aged 
6S. Rev. Moses Everett was ordained Sept. 2S, 1774, 
and continued till Jan. 14, 1793 ; he died March 25, 1813, 
aged 63. Their present pastor, Rev. Thaddeus Mason 
Harris, was ordained Oct. 23, 1793. A second church 
was gathered Jan. 1, 1SC8, and on the 7th of Dec. fol- 
lowing, the Rev. John Codman was ordained pastor. — 
The third church was gathered June 25, 1817, and the 
Rev. Edward Richmond installed pastor. The fourth, 
which is called the Village Church, gathered in 1829, 
Rev. David Saniord, pastor. At the north west part of 
Dorchester, near Roxbury, the land rises to the height 
of 385 feet above the sea, affording a deUghtful view of 
the city, and harbor. Savin Hill, which lies in the 
northeast corner of the town, is a place of considerable 
resort, during the summer season. 




Savin Hill Hotel and boarding house, kept here by 
]\Ir. Joseph Tuttle, is an excellent establishment. 
25" 



290 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

ROXBURy. 

This town was incorporated Sept. 28, 1630. Th^ 
centre of the town is 2 1-2 miles from the City Hall, 
It is connected with Boston by the neck, over which 
there is a continued street, campactly built the whole 
distance. 

In the south west part is Jamaica Plain, which is 
composed of a rich and productive soil, cultivated in a 
great degree as gardens and orchards, and producing 
vast quantities of vegetables and fruits of the first qual- 
ity. This plain is about two miles in length and one 
in breadth, on which are a great number of country 
seats and pleasure grounds. Here is a pond which 
supplies the Boston aqueduct. The whole forms one of 
the most delightful retreats in the vicinity of Boston. 
The south east part of the town, including near one 
third of its surface, is considerably broken and rocky. 
Much of the town is compactly built, and nearly all the 
uplands are thickly interspersed with plantations. 

Dr. Joseph Warren, Maj. Gen. in the armies of the 
United States, and who was slain in the battle of Bunker 
Hill, was a native of this town, as was also Increase 
Sumner, Esq. late Governor of the Commonwealth. — 
Governor Shirley had a fine seat here, lately owned 
and occupied by the late Gov. Eustis. 

Here are at present three congregational societies ; 
Rev. E. Porter, D. D. Rev. G. Putnam, Rev. Thomas 
Gray, D. D. Rev. Geo. Whitney, ministers ; one Baptist, 
Rev. Wm. H. Leverett, minister; and a Universalist 
society, Rev. Hosea Ballou 2d, minister, and St. James' 
Church. 

The Bank of Norfolk, and the People's Bank, are 
located here, and several excellent hotels. The most 
extensive is the Norfolk House. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



291 



THE NORFOLK HOUSE, 

Is about two miles from the City Hall, is situated on 
an eminence surrounded by fruit trees and shrubbery 
commanding a fine view of Boston. The establish- 
ment was opened by Mr. Durand, the present occu- 
pant, in 1827. The hotel has recently been much 
enlarged and improved. It contains twelve parlors, 
between thirty and forty bed-rooms, two dining rooms, 
and probably the most beautiful assembly room in the 
United States, called HigJiland Hall. A line of coaches 
runs from this place to Boston every half hour through 
the day, and every hour to the Wiimesimet Ferry. 

€R0VE HALL, 




Late residence of T. K. Jones, Esq. Is owned by Mr. 
E, D. Clark, and kept by Mr. C, A. Flagg, as a sum- 



292 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

mer boarding house. It is a delighlful resort for private 
parties, having every accommodation for their recrea- 
tion and amusement. It is about four miles from the 
city. 

BROOKLINE, 

Next to Roxbury on the west, was formerly consid- 
ered part of Boston. This town contains about 440^ 
acres of land. Several gentlemen of Boston have their 
country seats here. The number of inhabitants by the 
last census was 1200. This town Ues on the west of the 
bay, and its hills and woodlands form a pleasing portion 
of the scenery in the view from Boston Common. In 
a direct line, Brookline is four miles from the city. 



Was formerly part of the town of Cambridge and known 
by the name of Little Cambridge. It lies between 
Cambridge and Brookline. A cattle fair was commenced 
here during the revolutionary war and has been 
increasing in importance ever since. Most of the 
cattle for the supply of Boston market are brought in 
droves to this place ; often from 2 to 8000 a week : every 
Monday is the Fair day, when the dealers in provis- 
ions resort thither to make their purchases. Once a 
year, in the month of October, the Mass. Agricultural 
Society encourage a Cattle Show and exhibition of 
Manufactures, by the offer and award of premiums, for 
the best animals, products or articles of specified de- 
scriptions, produced in any part of this State. Brighton 
nuznbers about 1000, inhabitants. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. ^95 



CAMBRIDGE, 

Is celebrated as the seat of Harvard College. This 
institution was founded in the year 1616, and received 
its name from the Rev. John Harvard of Charlestown, 
who made the first great donation to its funds. Since 
that the benefactors of this institution have been nume- 
rous and liberal. The college buildings are situated oq 
a delightful plain, three miles from Boston. They are. 
University hall, which is built of granite, 140 by 50 
feet, on the ground, and 42 feet high. Harvard, Mas- 
sachusetts, Hollis, Stoughton and Holworthy halls, and 
Holden Chapel are all of brick : these buildings all 
stand within the enclosure of the College fence. Besides 
these there is a new stone building lately erected, and 
three College houses, occupied by students, the Pres- 
ident's house, and those of several of the Professors, and 
the Medical College in Boston, all which belong to the 
University. Divinity Hall, for a theological school, was 
built in the vicinity of these buildings in 1826. Cam- 
bridge contains about 5000 inhabitants, it has a Court- 
house, Jail, State Arsenal, and 10 houses of public 
worship. — There are three principal villages, Leche- 
mere Point, Cambridgeport, and the neighborhood of 
the Colleges, 

CHARLESTOWN. 

This village, which contains about 7500 inhabitants. 
Is built on a peninsula similar to that of Boston, and 
is so adjacent to North Boston, the stranger would be 
led to suppose it a part of the city. Charlestown was 
mttled in 1630 by Gov. Winthrop's company. It has 



294 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Mystic River on the east, over which Chelsea Bridge, 
near one mile in length, connects it with the Salem 
turnpike, and with the town of Chelsea ; and Maiden 
bridge, opened Sept. 2.3, 1788, 2420 feet in length, 
connects it with Maiden, and with the Newburyport, 
turnpike. It has a bay of Charles River on the west, 
and the peninsula is connected with the main land by a 
narrow neck on the north, over which a fine road leads 
to Medford and Cambridge. This town has eight houses 
for public worship, an elegant market house, a spacious 
alms house, three banks, and many other public edifices. 
One of the principal navy yards in the United States 
occcupies near sixty acres in the north east part of the 
town. It is enclosed on the north by a wall of durable 
masonry, and surrounded on other sides by water. On 
this space are enclosed a large brick w^arehouse, seve- 
ral arsenals, '.magazines of public stores, a large brick 
mansion house for the superintendant, and three im- 
mense buildings 'each sufficiently capacious to contain 
a ship of 100 guns, with all the stages and apparatus 
for its construction. 

The Dry Dock which is now completed, is built of 
hewn granite, 341 feet in length, by 80 in width, and 30 
in depth. It is capable of admitting the largest ship 
in our navy, the" entrance of the dock being sixty feet 
across. The dock is furnished with two sets of gates 
called turning gates, weighing 50 tons each. Besides 
there is what is denominated the floating gate, which 
weighs 300 tons, built like a vessel, is 60 feet long, 
13 wide, and 30 in height — requiring about 19 feet of 
water to float it. This is set in a groove outside of the 
other gates, filled with pig iron, for ballast. For empty- 
ing the^dock of water, a powerful hydraulic apparatus 
is employed, wrought by^a steam engine of 60 horse 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 295 

^owen There are eight lift pumps, each two feet six 
inches in diameter^ and discliarging altogether, at every 
stroke, 12 hogsheads^ there are also eight chain pumps, 
one foot in diameter. The water is first forced from the 
dock into wells, then into a large reservoir, whence it 
runs into the sea. The weight of the steam engine and, 
machinery is about 122 tons. The floating gate, is said 
to contain timber enough to build a ship of 3 or 400 tons ; 
and some 3 or 4000 dollars' worth of sheathing and bolt 
copper have been used upon it. The turning gates, at 
high water, sustain a pressure equal to about 800 tons. 
The frigate Constitution or ' Old Iron-sides ' has the 
honor of being the first vessel introduced into this dock. 
The Massachusetts State Prison is located on the 
most western point of Chariestown. The Old Prison 
was erected in 1814 — 15, with walls enclosing a yard, 
subsequently enlarged to its present size, being 500 
feet long by 240 wide. The State purchased about 
five acres, (mostly of flats) on which there has also 
been constructed a commodious wharf, which, with the 
garden, embraces an area equal to that of the Prison 
yard. The walls, which are 5 feet thick at the base 
and 15 to 18 feet high, are constructed of granite ; are 
washed on the North and the West by tide waters, and 
are picketed on the top, having a platform for the accom- 
modation of the Sentinels with six watch boxes. The 
wharf and garden are also secured by pickets 16 feet 
high. South of the old prison, 66 feet, is erected a ware- 
house. The whole cost of the establishment was 
<|170,000. At the west end of the yard, a lock hag 
been since constructed, admitting canal boats, with 
wood, stone, &c. through an aperture under the wallj. 
closed by strong gates. 



295 PICTURE OF BOSTON, 

The rooms in the old prison, having been found to& 
large, and experience having exhibited the beneficial 
tendency of soUtary night rooms, a law was passed in 
1826, by recommendation of Governor Lincoln, for the 
building of a new prison, to contain 300 solitary night 
cells, enclosed in an external wall, with a strong roof 
over the whole, on what may be termed the Auburn 
plan, and to which has been added a cookery and 
chapel, — the whole cost, $86,000, This edifice was 
occupied by the convicts on the 3d of Oct, 1829, and is 
without doubt one of the most commodious prisons in 
the United States, From the time of its being occu- 
pied, the rules and regulations framed by the Board 
of Inspectors, and sanctioned by the Governor and 
Council 30th Jan. 1830, have been acted upon; 
and together with the laws of the Commonwealth, on 
which they are founded, and the mode of executing 
them, as adopted by the Warden, have resulted it is 
believed, beneficially to the Institution and the convicts 
themselves. There are usually about 250 convicts. 
White persons of respectability are admitted to visit 
the Prison at any time except on Fast Day and the 
Sabbath, by paying 25 cents each. Tickets may be 
obtained on entering the outer yard, by applying to 
the gate keeper. 

The MacLean Asylum for the Insane, is also in this 
town, delightfully situated on a beautiful eminence. 
Market Square is one of the handsomest public squares 
in New-England. June 17, 1775, the ever memorable 
battle of Bunker Hill, was fought in this town. This 
battle, most bloody in its details, most important in its 
consequences, fought on our soil, has consecrated the 
heights of Charlestown to everlasting fame. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 297 

Bunker Hill is situated on the eastern part of the 
peninsula ; and is 113 feet above the level of high water. 
The redoubt and entrenchments which sheltered the 
heroes of that bloody day are still visible ; and a monu- 
ment composed of the imperishable granite of our hills, 
has been commenced on the battle ground to point out 
the spot to unborn generations. 

BUNKER HILL BIONUMENT. 

The corner stone of this Obelisk was laid, by the 
liands of the illustrious Lafayette, on the 17th of June, 
1825. On this occasion an immense concourse of citi- 
zens assembled from all parts of the United States, to 
witness the interesting ceremonies. The depth how- 
ever, at which it was laid, being insufficient to resist 
the action of the frost, it was taken up, the foundation 
sunk, the same relaid, and on the 21st of July, 1827, 
the base, 50 feet in diameter, was completed. From 
this base, occording to the plan, the monument is to 
rise 220 feet. While the funds held out, this great work 
advanced under the superintendance of Mr. Solomon 
Willard, the Architect, who generously gave three 
years service and ^1000, in aid of this patriotic un- 
dertaking. 

It will form when completed, an Obelisk 30 feet square 
at the base, and fifteen at the top. It will consist of 
eighty courses of Quincy Granite, each course two 
feet eight inches in thickness ; and will be the highest 
of the kind in the world, and only below the height of 
the Egyptian Pyramids. 

The whole quantity of stone necessary for this work, 
is 6,700 tons. Of this quantity 2,800 tons have been 
laid in the first fourteen courses, and 500 tons more are 

26 



298 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

already dressed, on the hill. There are 1,200 tons 
already split out in blocks, at Quincy, to dimensions far 
the various parts of the Monument. The remainder, 
2,200 tons, can be split from the quarry in ninety days^ 
for about $3,000. 

The battle ground contains about 15 arcres ; to obtain 
a clear title to which, the society paid $24,000. In 
proceeding thus far, the Society have expended all their 
funds, and $20,000, in addition, raised by mortgage on 
part of the land. With $30,000 more, the monument 
could be finished within eighteen months ; $20,000 
more will clear the land from all incumbrances. 

The Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association 
has undertaken to raise funds and complete the work, 
by laying the remaining sixty-six courses, and place 
the Battle Field in a situation that will insure forever 
its remaining without encroachment. 



Is situated on the north side of Boston Harbour and 
Mystic River, and on the west of Lynn Bay ; much 
of the land is low marsh or fen. The surface of the 
body of the town is broken into small eminences, the 
highest of which is Powder-Horn hill, 220 feet above 
the sea. The settlements are thinly scattered over the 
town, and the number of inhabitants is about 800. 



In the county of Essex, is one of the oldest towns in 
the State of Massachusetts Its settlement was begun 
in 1629. Its increase for the first years was very rapid, 
and many towns in New-England are indebted to it for 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 299 

their origin. The first church was gathered in 1632, 
and the Rev. Stephen Batchelor was admitted pastor. 
He was dismissed in 1635, and in the following year 
the Rev. Samuel Whiting was installed, whose colleague 
for many years was the Rev. Thomas Cobbet. Mr. 
Whiting died in 1679, and was succeeded by Rev. Jer- 
emiah Shepard. Among the other early inhabitants who 
sustained public offices with dignity and respect, were, 
Hon. John Humfrey and Hon. Robert Bridges, Assist- 
ants, and the Hon. John Burrill and Hon. Ebenezer 
Burrill, Counsellors. In 1645, iron works were estab- 
lished at Lynn, on the River Saugus, and for several 
years supplied most of the iron employed by the colo- 
nies. The principal business of the inhabitants is the 
manufacture of ladies' shoes, of which about 1,500,000 
pair are annually made. The other manufactures are, 
sole leather, morocco, glue, and chocolate, of which 
last, more than 70 tons are made in a year. There 
is also a Dye House, a Calico Printing Establishment, 
and a mill for sawing marble. A considerable num- 
ber of the inhabitants are employed in catching fish, of 
which great numbers are taken. Lynn is pleasantly 
situated on the northern shore of Massachusetts Bay, 
with the river Saugus on the west, and a range of hills 
on the north. It has a small harbor, with several 
wharves. It is 9 miles from Boston and 5 from Salem, and 
contains about 6,600 inhabitants. The public buildings 
are, an elegant hotel, a town house, a bank, a post office, 
eight school houses, and seven houses for public worship — 
two Congregational, three JMethodist, one Baptist, and 
one Quaker meeting-house. There i? a Printing Office 
in the town, from which a newspaper is issued, enti- 
tled the Lynn Record. A turnpike from Boston to 



300 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

Salem passes through the town, on which are two 
bridges — one a draw bridge over Saugus River, and 
the other a floating bridge across a pond, in the eastern 
part of the town, which may be regarded as a curiosity. 
The town affords a great variety of pleasant prospects, 
and sources of romantic amusement. Several of the 
eminences are commanding — particularly High Rock, 
near the eastern end of the Common, which furnishes 
a beautiful view of the town, the harbor, and several 
of the neighboring towns. There is also a steep rock, 
of considerable elevation, partly surrounded by tall 
trees, about half a mile north of the Hotel, called 
Lover's Leap, which is considered a romantic spot. A 
mineral spring, in the eastern part of the town, furnishes 
waters which appear to be impregnated with iron, and 
are said to be aperient and antiscorbutic. A convenient 
Hotel, and a large pond adjacent, furnished with a boat, 
render it an agreeable retreat. It is near the turnpike, 
about two miles east from the Lynn Hotel, and not far 
from the floating bridge. But the greatest curiosity in 
the town, and perhaps in the United States, is the Lynn 
Beach. It is a bar of sand, one mile and three fourths 
in length, and connects the main land, with the penin- 
sula of Nahant. 



This place having become a fashionable resort during 
the summer season for strangers and the citizens of 
Boston, it demands a particular description. It is a 
peninsula running three or four miles into the sea, and is 
situated fourteen miles northeasterly from Boston. By 
land it is approached from the village of Lynn over a 
beautiful beach of a mile and a half in length. At the 
extremity of this beach commences the peninsula^ 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 301 

which is about two miles in length, and in some parts 
half a mile broad, although its shores are extremely 
irregular and indented with small bays worn into the 
rocks by the unceasing action of the waves. The sur- 
face is uneven, rising in some places to the elevation of 
sixty or seventy feet above the level of the sea. The 
shore is very bold and presents, on all sides, a grand 
embankment of broken massy roclcs. At several points 
these rocks are worn into fantastic shapes, and at 
the time of high tide, or a swell of the sea, the roar 
and foam of the waters among them present a most 
interesting spectacle. On the southern side there is a 
curious grotto or cavern, called the swallow house, the 
entrance of which is about ten feet wide, five feet high, 
and seventy feet long, increasing after a few steps to 
fourteen feet in breadth, and eighteen or twenty feet 
in height. Great numbers of sv/allows inhabit this 
cave, and hatch their young here ; and it is a common 
opinion that they repose here in a torpid state during 
the winter. On the north shore is a chasm, thirty feet 
in depth, called the spouting horn, into which, at about 
half tide, the water rushes Vvith ti-emendous violence. 
The whole expanse of the ocean spreads out towards the 
east, and, after a storm, the rolling waves come pouring 
in their immense burden upon these rocks wiih such a 
power, sublimity and uproar of contending elements as 
can hardly be conceived by any one who has not wit- 
nessed the scene. And again, when the sea is tranquil, 
it may be seen covered with shipping of all sizes, as 
far as the eye can extend, moving in different directions 
up and down the coast, and exhibiting an animating 
picture of the industry and activity of commerce. In 
short, for picturesi^ue beauty and sublimity of scenery, 
as well as for the many advantages arising from its 
26* 



302 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

peculiar local situation, the place is not surpassed by 
any on the American coast. 

Nahant presents, besides a view of the ocean, a great 
variety of other interesting prospects. On one side is 
seen the village of Lynn, Swamscut, Phillips' Beach, 
Marblehead, Egg Rock, and the north shore as far as 
the high land of Cape Ann — on the other, beautiful 
islands in the bay. the deeply indented coast with towns, 
orchards, fields and forests, together with the dome and 
spires of Boston in the distance, forming together a 
panorama hardly to be equalled in beauty or variety. 

Additional improvements are annually made to ac- 
commodate visitors, who have within a few years be- 
come very numerous, and those of the most fashionable 
class. A spacious and elegant stone edifice has been 
erected as a hotel, near the extremity of the peninsula, 
in a very commanding and pleasant situation. This 
building contains 70 chambers, constructed on a plan of 
peculiar convenience, both for families and single per- 
sons. The dining hall is sufficiently spacious to accom- 
modate 150 persons at table, besides which there are 
drawing rooms and private parlors. Large and commo- 
dious stables are appended to the hotel, and a bathing 
house for warm and cold baths, and floating baths for 
those who may prefer the bracing action of sea water, 
make a part of the establishment. The hotel is sur- 
rounded by piazzas, which afford a most delightful pros- 
pect in every direction, and receive the cool and re- 
freshing breezes every part of the day. 

In a small village a quarter of a mile from the hotel, 
are several private boarding houses, where every ac- 
commodation can be had for invalids, and for those who 
seek retirement. 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 305 

Nahant has many amusements — angling with the 
rod may be enjoyed as a pleasant recreation, standing 
on the rocks, and those who would try their skill in 
taking larger prey, may go out in boats, which are 
always in readiness, and furnished with suitable ap- 
paratus. Game too is abundant in the vicinity ; but 
there are few amusements or pleasures superior to that 
of riding, at suitable hours of the day, on the beach. 

A beautiful building in imitation of a Grecian temple, 
stands on an eminence near the hotel, in which are two 
elegant billiard rooms. There are also convenient cov- 
ered bowling alleys, and such other means of amuse- 
ment as are usually connected with the most extensive 
and elegant establishments at watering places. 



REVOLUTIONARY FORTS. 

Forts around Boston zvhicfi -were erected during the 
War of Independence. 

More than half a century has elapsed since these 
lines were erected, and it is desirable to have some 
record by which posterity may know, how much they 
have suffered, during that period by the w^ar of the 
elements, and by the hands of men. The first cause of 
destruction has been trifling, but the storms of a thou- 
sand years would not have achieved the injury which 
has been committed by the industrious farmers. 

1. At Breed's Hill, that blood-stained field, the 
redoubt thrown up by the Americans is nearly effaced ; 
scarcely the slightest trace remains; but the entrench- 
ment, which extended from the redoubt to the marsh, 
is still marked by a slight elevation of the ground. — 
The redoubt thrown up by the British on the summit of 
the hill near the monument, may be easily distinguished. 



304 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

2. Bunker Hill. The remains of the British fort 
are visible, the works must have been very strong, and 
occupied a large extent of ground — they are on the 
summit and slope of the hill looking towards the penin- 
sula. 

3. Ploughed Hill. The works upon this hill were 
commenced by the Americans on the night of August 
26th, 1775, and received more fire from the British than 
any of the other forts ; in a few days, more than three 
hundred shells were fired at these fortifications. A 
small part of the rampart remains, but the whole hill is 
surrounded by the mounds and fosse of the ancient fort, 
which has been nearly obliterated. 

4. Cobble or BarreWs Hill, now occupied for the 
Maclean Asylum, was fortified and occupied as a strong 
post in the war of the Revolution by Gen. Putnam, and, 
in consequence of its strength, was called Putnam's 
impregnable fortress. 

5. Lechemere Point Redoubt, one hundred yards 
from Cragie's bridge, displayed more science in its con- 
struction, and had a wider and deeper fosse than most of 
the other fortifications. It was commenced on Bee. 
11th, 1775, and it was several days before it was com- 
pleted, during which time it was much exposed to the 
fire of the English in Boston. Two or three soldiers of 
the revolutionary army were killed at this redoubt, and 
the Prunus Yirginiana, with its red berries, marks the 
spot where they were probably interred. 

A causeway made across the marsh, the covered way 
which crosses the brow of the hill, and the lines which 
flanked Willis' Creek, are still perfect, and may be 
traced with great facility. 

6. Winter Hill Fort, appears to have been the most 
extensive, and the entrenchments more numerous, than 
any of the other positions of the American Army. The 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. S05 

fort on the hill is almost entirely destroyed ; only a small 
part of the rampart still remains perfect. 

A redoubt situated upon Ten Hill Farm, which com- 
manded the navigation of the Mystic River, is complete, 
as are also some slight entrenchments near. 

A redoubt, situated between Winter and Prospect 
Hill, has been completely carried away, and a quarry 
has been opened on the spot. Gen. Lee is said to have 
had his head quarters in a farm house immediately in 
the rear of this redoubt. 

7. Prospect Hill has two eminences, both of which 
were strongly fortified, and connected by a rampart and 
fosse ; about two hundred yards are quite entire. 

8. Forts marked No. 3, on Marshall's map, near 
the S. W. of Prospect Hill have some of their bastions 
entire, but the surface is cultivated, and part of the 
outline destroyed, 

9. The Cambridge Lines, situated upon Butler's Hill, 
appear to have consisted of six regular forts, connected 
by a strong entrenchment. The most northerly of these 
forts is perfect, with the exception of one of its angles 
destroyed by the road, it appears as if just quitted by the 
army of America ; its bastions are entire, the outline is 
perfect, and it seems a chef d'oeuvre of the military art. 

A square fort may be seen near the southern extrem- 
ity of these lines, in fine preservation ; it is in a field 
within two hundred yards of the road to Cambridge. 

10. The second Line of Defence may be traced on 
the College green at Cambridge, but its proximity to 
the Public Halls may have produced some inconve- 
nience, and it has been consequently destroyed. 

11. A semicircular battery, with three embrasures, 
on the Northern shore of Charles River near its entrance 
into the Bay, is in a perfect state of preservation. It is 



306 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

rather above the level of the marsh, and those who would 
wish to see it, should pass on the road to Cambridge, un- 
til they arrive at a cross road, which leads to the bank 
of the river ; by following the course of the stream, 
they may arrive at this battery, without crossing the 
marsh, which is its northern boundary and difficult to 
pass. 

12. Brookline Fort, or, as it is called in the annals 
of the Revolution, the Fort on Sewall's Point, was 
very extensive, and would be still perfect were it not 
for the road which divides it into two nearly equal parts ; 
with this exception, the ramparts, and an irregular 
bastion, which commanded the entrance of Charles 
River, are entire. 

13. A Battery on the southern shore of Muddy 
River, with three embrasures, is only slightly injured. 

14. Jl Redoubt placed by Marshall to the westward 
of this position, has not been discoveed, nor three oth- 
ers, placed on the map between Stony Brook and the 
forts at Roxbury ; perhaps the researches were not suf- 
ficiently accurate. 

Two hundred yards north of the lower fort at Rox- 
bury, near the spot on which the meeting-house now 
stands, was an entrenchment, which was levelled many 
years ago. 

15. The fort at Roxbury, appears to have been the 
earliest erected, and by its elevation commanded the 
avenue to Boston over the isthmus, and prevented the 
advance of the English troops in that direction. It is of 
the most irregular form ; the interior occupies about two 
acres of ground, and as the hill is bare of soil, the 
places may still be seen whence the earth was taken to 
form the ramparts. This fortification has not been at 
all injured, and the embrasures may still be noticed 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 307 

where the canon were placed, which fired upon the 
advanced Une of the enemy. 

On a higher eminence of the same hill, is situated a 
quadrangular fort, built on the summit of the rock. 

16. The RoxJjury lines about three quarters of a 
mile in advance of the forts, and two hundred yards 
nwth of the town, are still to be seen on the eastern 
side of the peninsula, and may be distinguished by any 
person going by the nearest road to Dorchester, over 
Lamb's dam. 

17. At this period it may be proper to mention the 
British fortifications. The lines upon the Neck may 
still be traced to great advantrge on the western side of 
the isthmus, about a quarter of a mile south of the 
Green Stores. There appear to have been two lines of 
entrenchments carried quite across the peninsula, and 
the fosse, which was filled at high water, converted 
Boston into an island. The mounds, ramparts, and 
wide ditches which remain, attest the strength of the 
original works. The small battery on the common, 
erected by the British, may perhaps remain for a long 
period of years, as a memorial of ancient times. 

18. The Dorchester Lines. Of these, some very 
slight traces may be distinguished. 

19. Forts on Dorchester Heights. We now hasten 
to the last forts, the erection of which terminated the 
contest in this portion of the Eastern States of America, 
It is to be regretted that the entrenchments thrown up 
by the army of the revolution, on the heights at South 
Boston, are almost entirely obliterated by the erection 
of two new forts in the late war. But some traces of 
the ancient works may be seen on both hills ; the old 
forts were constructed with more skill, and display more 
science than the recent works, the ramparts of which 
are even now falling down ; and we would gladly see 



308 PICTURE OF BOSTON. 

them destroyed, if from their ruins the ancient works 
could reappear. 

20. A noble octagonal fort, and two batteries, which 
may be seen, in perfect preservation, upon the promon- 
tory, were erected after the departure of the English 
from Boston. The fort is situated at the point; one 
battery in the rear of the House of Industry, whose 
inmates will probably soon destroy it, and the other 
upon a rising ground immediately below the Heights of 
Dorchester, as they were formerly called. 

21. At A^ook Hill near the Boston Free Bridge, was 
the last breastwork thrown up by the forces of America^ 
during this arduous contest. Its appearance on the 
morning of March 17, 1776, induced the departure of 
the British troops from Boston in a few hours, and thus 
placed the seal to the independence of the New-Eng- 
land States. 

If these fortresses should be regarded with indiffer- 
ence, let us consider that the siege of Boston, was one 
of the most prominent features in the war of the revo- 
lution. In a military point of view it presents conspic- 
uous features : an island, or rather a peninsula, besieged 
from the continent. Accomplished generals, and brave 
and disciplined troops on one side, and undisciplined, 
but numerous forces on the other. At the same time^ 
the army of England did all that men, in such a condi- 
tion, could attempt. If they had obtained possession 
of any part of the lines, by the sacrifice of an. immense 
number of lives, still no advantage could have been 
gained by advancing into a country where every man 
was a foe, and every stone wall a rampart, and every 
hill a fortress. When we examine the extent of the 
lines, (more than twelve miles,) the numerous forts 
covering every hill/redoubts and batteries erected upon 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 309 

every rising ground, ramparts and entrenchments defend- 
ing every valley, we are surprised at the immensity of 
the works constructed, and the labour required to com- 
plete them. 

Many centuries hence, if despotism without, or anarchy 
within, should cause the republican institutions of Amer- 
ica to fade, then these fortresses ought to be destroyed, 
because they would be a constant reproach to the 
people ; but until that period, they should be preserved 
as the noblest monuments of liberty. 




INDEX. 



Abolition day 214 
Adams' scliool 34 
John 41 
American academy 40 
Amphitheatre 205 
Amusements ]'J8 
Ancient buildings 243 
Annals oC Boston 247 
Anniversaries 212 
Apprentices library 45, 51 
Artillery, ancient & hon. 195 
Armories 71 
Ashbury connection 176 
Assessors '25 
Asylum for the blind 59, 241 

for indigent boys 14,52 
Female Orphan 51 
Athenaeum 38 

Gallery 40 
Auditor, City 22 
Avenue, western 10, 98 
Bank, United States 8ti 
Banks, list of 228 
Baptistry 146, 177 
Bells, chime of 140 
Belhngliam, Gov's man. 187 
Boston society 53 
Boston library society 42 
Boston & Lowell Railroad 239 

Providence 2S7 

Boundaries of Boston 9 
Boylston market 80 

School 34 
Bowdoin scliooj 34 

Gov. 41 
Beacon hill IQ 



Bell island 11 
Brookline 292 
Bridges iO, 11, 91 
Brighton 292 

Fair 214 
British char, society 55 
Buildings, public (57 
Bromfield house 228 
Burial of the dead 24 
Burial grounds J84 
Bunker hill 

Cadets, independent 197 
Calf island 12 
Cambridge 293 

Canals, Box. & Middlesex 227 
Canal creek 239 
Canal bridge 98 
Capital of' banks 228 
Captain of the watch 28 
Castle island 11, 120 
Common burial ground 18S 
Cemeteries 184, 189 
Cenotaph, Franklin 
Central wharf 114 
Centinel, Columbian 47 
Ciiarles river bridge 92 

channel J5 
Charlestown 298 
Chapel burial ground 184 
Charitable societies 49 
Chauncy hall 90 
City hall 76 
Chelsea 298 
Christmas day 215 
Critical cljb 66 
Civcus, old 20Q 



313 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



Churches 

1 Cliauncy place 124 

2 Second 126 

3 First b iptist 127 

4 Old south 130 

5 King's chapel 131 

6 Brattle street 133 

7 New north 135 

8 New south 136 

19 Christ's church 138 

10 Federal st. cong. 141 

11 Hollis St. 142 

12 Trinity church 143 

13 West church 144 

14 Second baptist J46 

15 First universalist 148 

16 Roman catholic 149 

17 St Augustine's 150 

18 First nielhodist 152 

29 Second methodist 154 

20 South Bosto;! meth. 155 
91 African methodist 157 
23 Sea St. churcii 156 

23 African baptist 155 

24 Third baptist 158 

25 Park street 159 

26 Hawes place J60 

27 St Matthews lfi2 

28 Second universalist 1G3 

39 New Jerusalem 164 

30 Union church 1G4 

31 St. Paul's 160 

32 Central universal 167 

33 Evangelical, So. Boston 168 

34 Green street 169 

35 Chamber st. 173 

36 B:.wdoin st. 174 

37 Purchase street 175 

38 African ebenezor 176 
49 Federal st. baptist 177 

40 Pine st. church 178 

41 Salem st. church 179 

42 Soutii congregational 180 

43 Mariner's church 181 

44 Bethel church 182 

45 Grace church 182 

4:5 Epis. Mis. chapel 183 

41 Otlier cliistian societies 183 



48 Andrew Croswell's ch. 148 

49 Fourth universal 183 

50 Millon St. missionary 183 

51 Second baptist S. Boston 183 
53 Melliodist s.,ciety 184 

53 Methodist protestant 184 

54 Friend st. chapel 184 

55 Mission house 184 
Circulating libraries 43, 44, 45 
City council 21 

hall 76 

clerk 21 

solicitor 23 

incorporated 12, 19 

seal 284 

tavern 220 

& county (reas. 21 

boundary 17 
Cleik common council 21 
Columbian library 43 
College 293 
Commencement day 213 
Com. coffee house 220 
Crescent pond 17 
Common 10, 17 
Common council 19, 20 
Constables 28 
Corinthian hall SO 
Copp's hill burying ground 185 
Copp's hill 9 
Correction, house of 83 
Chauncy hall 90 
Cotton, rev. John 9 
Courthouse (new) 239 
Court, police 28 

common pleas 23 
Court, supreme 18 
Courthouse (court square) 84 

(old) 84 
Commerce of iJoston 12 
Craiges' Bridge 98 
Custom house 85 
Deer island II, 121 
Dorchester 2S8 
Dawes' family tomb 184 
Debtor's prison 83 
Dry dock 
Deeds, register of 29 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



813 



Debating society, (Boston) 60 

Fiankli!i61 
Descendants of Calvin 13 
DispRnsiiry, medical 51 
District otficers 19 
Domestic female society 54 
East Bosion2U 
Election days 213 
Emporium, literary 13 
Ellioc school 33 
English liigli school 34 
Environs 285 
Exchange coffee house 218 
Faneuilhall70, 76 
Fast days 213 
Fire department 27 
Fire society, charitable 49 
Forts warren & indepen. 11 

revolutionary 
Finance, (city) 242 
Fort strong 11 
Foundation of the city 9 
Franklin monument 187 

bank 16 

school 34 
Free bridge, S. Boston 100 
Front street 239 
Fort hill 10 
Fresh pond 

Fusiliers, independent 197 
Funeral fees 24 
Gage, gen. head quarters 135 
Gas works 236 
George's island 11, 119 
Government, city 19 
Governor's islind 11, 120 
Gallop island 11 
Green island 12 
Graves rocks 12 
Grammar school 32 
Grove hall 291 
Granary burial ground 187 
Guards, N. England 197 
Guards, ciry 198 
Hall, boylston 80 
Halls, various 89, 90 
Hancock school 33 
Handel &, Haydcn society 61 



Hancock house 245 

Harbour described 11,12 

Health department 27 

Hf-art of the city 16 

Hills in the city 16 

Health commissioners 22 

Hawes school 34 

Historical society 42 

Hotels 215 

Hospital mass. gen. 105 
marine 109 

House of industry 26 
reformation 27 
correction (new) 25 

Howard benevolent society 53 

Humane society 49 

Hutchinson, it. govs. houEO 14 

Improvements 235 

Independence 213 

India wharf 113 

Indigent boys asylum 52 

Infirmary, eye & ear 53 

Infant schools 37 

Infantry, boston light 197 

Insane asylum 108 

Insurance offices 234 

Islands, principal ones 11 

Introductory history 9 

Islands in Boston harbor 118 

Institution for the blind 52, 241 

Joy's buildings 91 

Jail, county 82 

Jamaica pond 290 

Jarvis dr. diaries moument 186 

Judge, municipal salary 29 

Julien hall 89 

Laboratory of arms 195 

Latitude of the city 9 

Latin grammar school 35 

Lectures, mech. institute 59 

J^ibraries, circulating 43 

Liberty tree hotel 230 

Light house inland 11, 122 

Long wharf 113 

Lynn, town of 293 

Lyceum, mechanic's 64 

Lyceum 64 

Lying-in hospital 53 

Long island 11 



314 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



Level's 11 
Legislature 13 
McLean asylum 108 
Magazines, list of 48 
Map of environs 314 
Market, fan. hall 72 

merchant's hall 81 
Parkman's 81 
_ city 82 
Marriage fee 21 
Marine hospital 10& 
Masonic temple 87 
Mather dr. Samuel 147 
Marshall, city 22 

district 22 
Marlboro' hotel 219 
May day 213 
Mayhow school 34 
Mayor &. aldermen J9, 20 
Mercantile library 45 

wharf 117 
Mechanic association, 50, 298 
Mechanics (Boston) inst. 59 
Medals, collection of 39 
Medical society, mass. 55 

association, Boston 55 
Medical college 104 
Messenger, duties of 24 
Merchant's hotel 220 
Merchant's hall 81 
Methodist ministers, list of 155 
Mill corporation 98 
Military affairs 194 
Monument, b. hill 297 
Moorhead, rev. John 141 
Mount auburn 189 
Mount vernon 10 
Mount Washington IG 
Municipal court 28 
Museum, Columbian 210 

new england 211 

state 212 
Nahant hotel 300 
Names of schools 33 
Navy yard 294 
New england society 57 
News letter first paper 46 
News papers, list of 47, 48 



New brick church 126 
New year's day 212 
N england coffee house 221 
Nix's mate 122 
Noddle's island 11, 121 
Norfolk house 291 
North boston 13 

boundary 13 
Number of scholars 37 

of worshiping assem. 184 
Nuns, ursuline 151 
Old north church 126 
Old brick 125 
Omnibus stage 242 
Overseers, poor 19, 25 

h. of correction 26 
Packets and steamboats 226 
Phipps, gov's house 14 
Pethick's island 11 
Physician, resident 23 

salary 24 

duty of 24 
Police court'28 
Pond on the common 17 
Probate court 29 
Primary schools 31 
Paintings, exhibition of 43 
Periodicals 46 
Pharmacy, college of 55 
Prison discipline society 63 
Prisoner's fare 83 
Post office 79 
Pantheon hall 90 
Penitent female refuge 53 
Population of boston 9 
Pemberton hill 10 
Permanent assessors 25 
Prison point bridge 98 
Presbyterian (irish) church 141 
Pews, square 132 
Paine's R. T. residence 177 
Plan of the city 284 
Quarantine deportment 27 
hospital 109 
laws 111 
Quaker's meeting 133 
Quincy 286 
Russell, benjamin, editor 46 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



315 



Register of deeds 29 
Religious & moral society 53 
Refuge, penitent female 53 
Reading room, ToplitTs 78 
Rainsford island 11 
Railways, marine 118 
Rangers 197 
Railroads 237 
Railway, marine 118 
Revolutionary forts 303 
Roxbuiv 290 
Savin hill 289 

Shawmut, ind. name of boston 9 
Selectmen, former 12 
South end 15 
South boston 15, 185 

boundary 15 
South cove company 240 
Suffolk county 18 
School committee 19, 25 
Solicitor, city 22 
Street, supcrintendant of 24 
Sabbath schools 37 
Savings bank 42 
Seamen's savings bank 
Societies various 49 
State prison 295 
State house 67 
Sabine rev. mr. 166 
South bridge, (boston) 96 
Shirley, point 121 
Stages 226 

Sandermanian society 148 
Sumner, gov's monument 187 
Suffolk county 18 
Sullivan, gov's tomb 187 
Superintendant burial grounds 24 

of streets 24 
Supreme J. court 18 
South end borial ground 188 
Soul of souldiery 197 
Shot in the wall of brattle st 

church 134 
Statue of Washington 192 
Snow hill cemetery 186 
Spectacle island 11 
Squantum 214 
Steam boats ^6 



Seal of the city 314 

Salary of the mayor 20 
city clerk 21 
clerk c. council 21 
city treasurer 21 
city marshal 22 
auditor 22 
messenger 23 
assessors 25 
sup. bur. grounds 24 
city solicitor 23 
resident phys. 24 
clerk h. indust. 27 
sup. h. ref. 27 
chief engineer 27 
police court 28 
captain watch 23 
judge m. court 29 
register of deeds 29 
sup. of streets 24 

Trimountain, origin 10 

Treasurer, city 21 

Thayer, G. F. school 90 

Trade and commerce 112 

Telegraph, marine 114 

Thompson's island 11, 122 

Tombs, number of 189 

Theatre, boston 198 

Washington 205 
tremont 206 
■warren 209 

Troroont house 215 

Thayer, rev. John 151 

Training days 215 

Thanksgiving days 215 

Taverns, list of 215 

United states court 18 

branch bank 86 

Unitarian liturgy 132 

Vassals monument 185 

Vaccination 24 

Winthrop, gov. arrives 9 
tomb 184 

West boston 15 

Ward officers 25 
books 22 
meetings 19 

Watch, captain of 26 



316 



PICTURE OF BOSTON. 



Writing schools 32 

Washington 41 

birth day 212 
busf 139 
statue 192 
theatre 205 
light inf. CO. 197 
hdll 90 



West boston bridge 95 
Warren bridge 102 
Wharves 12, 113 
Wiiinesimet ferry 11, 104 
Worcnster rail road 238 
Winslovv blues 197 
Young men's association 65 
society 65 




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